The Carolina Panthers have gone undefeated largely due to the brilliance of Cam Newton this season and the strength of their defense. But running back Jonathan Stewart has also been a big part of the team's success as well. The veteran ball carrier is averaging 4.1 yards per carry and has racked up 989 yards and six touchdowns, a big help to fantasy football owners everywhere.
But with Stewart dealing with a foot injury, the Panthers have been forced to rely on other rushers. It's unlikely that he'll return this week, meaning fantasy football owners must choose wisely when it comes to his replacement.
"With Jonathan Stewart out of action, Cameron Artis-Payne emerged as the team's lead back against the Giants in Week 15," ESPN Fantasy Football Insider Mike Clay wrote. "The rookie played 31 snaps and racked up 93 yards on 16 touches. Meanwhile, Fozzy Whittaker managed four touches on 26 snaps. Mike Tolbert carried the ball on five of 23 snaps. Atlanta has allowed two or more rushing touchdowns in six games this season, including exactly two during three of its past four outings. If Stewart remains out this week, Artis-Payne will be a RB2 option and a worthwhile value target in DFS."
As Clay mentioned, the Falcons have been gashed on the ground near the endzone this year. Their defense has allowed 18 rushing touchdowns this year, tied for the worst mark in the NFL. Overall, they are surrendering 19.6 standard fantasy points to opposing rushers this season, the fourth-most in the league.
Should head coach Ron Rivera decide to keep his foot on the gas pedal, Artis-Payne could see a lot of work in a favorable matchup. That bodes well for his fantasy prospects.
