M.J. Stewart

Rookie cornerback M.J. Stewart suffered an ankle injury in Saturday's 30-14 preseason win against the Tennessee Titans Saturday and did not return. He was back at practice Monday, but with a black jersey, signifying no contact allowed.

Fantasy Impact

IDP owners may want to monitor his progress. Before leaving the contest on Saturday the rookie cornerback forced two fumbles. He is deep in the competition with fellow rookie Carlton Davis and veteran Vernon Hargreaves for playing time with the first defensive unit

With fellow rookie Carlton Davis (ankle) and Vernon Hargreaves (groin) both held out of Saturday's preseason contest versus Tennesse, M.J. Stewart (ankle) got a full complement of time on the field to display his skills until going down with his own ankle injury. Tampa Bay is now getting thin at the cornerback position unless these guys can get back on the field

Fantasy Impact

Second-round rookie M.J. Stewart was having a great game until the injury, one that IDP owners would want to take note of. Included in his performance was forceing a pair of fumbles, which immediately leads to points for the Tampa Bay offense. At this moment and with all the injuries, it is hard to tell exactly which cornerback(s) will emerge for IDP owners. The pair of rookies are coming on strong so Hargreaves owners should pay special attention to what unfolds over the next couple of weeks.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have selected UNC CB M.J. Stewart 53rd overall.

Fantasy Impact

Stewart is a versatile player who can play a hybrid role on the Buccaneers defense. Although he needs some work and is not viewed an immediate starter, he could see time in the nickel early in the year.