Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the New York Giants.
Jonathan Stewart injury update: RB ruled out Sunday for Panthers, fantasy owners
Though Jonathan Stewart’s foot injury is not considered serious, the Panthers will keep their veteran running back out of action Sunday. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Stewart exited Week 14's trouncing of the Atlanta Falcons with a foot injury, and though his MRI revealed nothing serious, Panthers brass has opted to give its veteran running back a week off.
A committee of Mike Tolbert, Cameron Artis-Payne and Fozzy Whittaker will take Stewart's place in the backfield.
Fantasy impact: The Panthers don’t have much reason to not give its ailing veterans a week off, since they are afforded that luxury while sitting at 13-0.
One more win and an Arizona Cardinals loss would secure home field advantage for the Panthers throughout the playoffs. Fantasy owners would dread that scenario if it came to fruition while the fantasy playoffs continue.
Stewart could conceivably return to the lineup in Week 16, but since his status is more about preservation than immediate health, fantasy owners will have a difficult time assessing whether they can rely on the veteran running back the way they did over the course of the season.
Stewart remains a steady RB2 if he plays in Week 16, but none of his backups can be considered strong fantasy options.
