Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart is practicing with the team on Friday, per the Charlotte Observer's Joe Person.
Jonathan Stewart returns to Friday practice, has a nice fantasy matchup Sunday
The veteran running back has battled a shin injury, but he returned to practice on Friday. We break down the fantasy implications.
Friday marks the first time Stewart practiced with the Panthers this week, as he sat out Wednesday and Thursday due to a shin injury. It's a step in the right direction for the veteran back in terms of playing Sunday, but he will likely carry the questionable designation heading into the Panthers' bout with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Fantasy impact: Stewart’s return to practice bodes well for his availability, and should he get the call, he has a nice matchup at hand to improve upon his slow start to the season. The Buccaneers have allowed five touchdowns to opposing running backs as well as the fourth-highest fantasy point total to the position.
As long as Stewart is in the backfield, his volume warrants low-end RB2 consideration. Against a leaky Buccaneers defense, expect efficiency with that volume which could make for a fine fantasy output. If Stewart sits, Cameron Artis-Payne and Fozzy Whittaker will split backfield duties but neither are worth a start in fantasy leagues.
