In a devastating blow to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, wide receiver Russell Gage is set to miss the entire 2023 season due to a knee injury sustained during a joint practice with the New York Jets.
The incident occurred on Wednesday when Gage was carted off the practice field in Florham Park.
The severity of the injury became apparent as Gage was seen in tears while leaving the field, with his teammates showing support by taking a knee around him.
Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles expressed concern about the injury, stating, “We hear it’s going to be pretty serious, and I’ll wait to hear the final results.”
The injury itself was noncontact, occurring as Gage was backpedaling during 7-on-7 drills.
Bowles noted, “I can tell by the way that he was sitting on the truck that it was probably something that happened pretty bad. Our hearts go out to him, and we’ll see how it goes.”
This unfortunate setback adds to a series of injuries that have plagued Gage during his time with the Buccaneers.
Previously, he had been dealing with a hamstring strain throughout the spring and early stages of training camp but had been completely participating in practice for over a week.
Last season, Gage made a significant impact in his first year with the Buccaneers, catching 51 passes for 426 yards and a career-high five touchdowns in 13 games.
The 27-year-old wide receiver took a pay cut this offseason to remain with the team, demonstrating his commitment to the organization.
Gage’s absence will create an opportunity for other wide receivers including Trey Palmer, Deven Thompkins, and David Moore to step-up and fill Gage’s boots.
Gage’s injury leaves a void in the starting lineup, alongside star receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.
The Buccaneers will surely feel Gage’s absence in the upcoming season. The team will rally together to support their injured teammate and adjust their game plan accordingly.
