Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera announced starting running back Jonathan Stewart will miss a “week or two” with an injury. If Sunday is any indication, it opens up an opportunity for Fozzy Whittaker to take control of the Panthers backfield and become fantasy relevant.
Should you pick him up from your waiver wire? The answer depends on your team needs and what you are looking to address in the pickup. Whittaker is more of a short-term solution at running back rather than someone you are going to be able to count on long-term.
When Stewart was healthy the first week against the Broncos, Whittaker only had three carries for 13 yards. Whittaker’s value is dependent on Stewart’s health. With Stewart out, Whittaker had 16 rushing attempts for 100 yards in Week 2 against the 49ers.
Whittaker has a challenging matchup this week against the Vikings defensive line. He would be a low-end RB2 play if you are desperate at running back. He would have a favorable matchup in Week 4 against the Falcons if Stewart is not able to return.
There are likely better options on your waiver wire if you need someone to play this week. He is a stash candidate to add and sit on your bench in case Stewart’s injury is more serious than the Panthers are letting on. Cameron Artis-Payne is the next Panthers running back on the depth chart, but the Panthers do not appear to be high on him making him irrelevant in re-draft leagues.