Major Injury Concern for Buccaneers Receiver Russell Gage during Joint Practice with Jets
In a joint practice session with the New York Jets on Wednesday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced a major injury setback among their receivers. Russell Gage, a key player in the Buccaneers’ offense, was carted off the field after sustaining an apparent leg injury.
Eyewitnesses, including multiple reporters who were present during the practice, reported that Gage had to be carried off the field following the injury. His teammates, showing their support, took a knee as Gage was being attended to. The receiver seemed to be in discomfort and tears as he made his way off the field.
Rick Stroud, a reputable writer for the Tampa Bay Times, provided additional insight into the incident, noting that Gage’s injury occurred without any contact as he was backpedaling. Such non-contact injuries are often unpredictable and lend uncertainty to the extent of the damage.
The 27-year-old Gage had a notable season for the Buccaneers last year, catching 51 passes for 426 yards and scoring five touchdowns. Apart from key receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, Gage is among the experienced options on Tampa Bay’s roster. Losing him to injury would be a significant blow to the team’s offensive capabilities.
Originally a sixth-round pick in the 2018 draft, Gage spent his first four seasons with the Atlanta Falcons before joining the Buccaneers. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 244 receptions for 2,491 yards and scored 14 touchdowns.
The Buccaneers’ coaching staff and medical team will undoubtedly be closely monitoring Gage’s injury and conducting further assessments to determine the best course of action. The severity of the leg injury will play a crucial role in the receiver’s playing time and the team’s subsequent steps.
For now, the Buccaneers will await more information and hope for a speedy recovery for Russell Gage, as they continue their preseason preparations ahead of the upcoming NFL season.