Panthers' Jonathan Stewart remains absent from practice

Carolina Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart remained absent from practice Tuesday due to a foot injury that sidelined from Sunday's victory over the New York Giants.

Stewart wasn't able to participate in any of the team's sessions last week and it appears Carolina is going to be cautious with his return, with a first-round bye already secured.

While the Panthers have said they have no plans to rest their starters, Stewart has been such a vital part of their offense that there's no upside to rushing him back onto the field.

Rookie running back Cameron Artis-Payne led the Panthers with 59 yards rushing against the Giants, and with Mike Tolbert and Fozzy Whittaker as other options in the backfield, the Panthers have the necessary depth if Stewart is unable to play in Week 16.