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In a devastating blow to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers‘ receiving corps, wide receiver Russell Gage was carted off the field during a joint practice with the New York Jets today.
The incident occurred when Gage suffered a non-contact knee injury that left him unable to put weight on his leg.
Reporters on the scene noted that Gage was visibly upset, even shedding tears, as he was assisted by the team’s training staff.
According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, initial assessments are grim. The belief is that the severity of the injury is such that it could prematurely end Gage’s season.
The Buccaneers are expected to conduct further medical examinations to determine the exact nature of the injury and the extent of the damage.
#Bucs WR Russell Gage suffered a non-contact knee injury during today's joint practice with the #Jets and the belief heading into exams is that the severe injury will end his season, per me and @MikeGarafolo. A hit to WR depth and crushing for Gage.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 16, 2023
This unfortunate turn of events deals a significant blow to the Buccaneers’ wide receiver depth.
Gage’s absence will leave a noticeable void in the lineup, as he played right behind established stars Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.
Gage’s versatility and contributions will be sorely missed, adding pressure on the remaining receivers to step up and fill the gap in his absence.