Who Should I Start? Russell Gage Jr. or John Metchie III

Saturday, September 6, 4:32 PM

The San Francisco 49ers have elevated veteran wide receiver Russell Gage Jr. from the practice squad, meaning he will see his first game action since 2022. Gage missed the past two seasons after suffering a torn patellar tendon, but was previously a reliable WR3 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and quarterback Tom Brady. The 49ers' receiver room is in shambles, with Brandon Aiyuk, Jacob Cowing, and Demarcus Robinson all sidelined. Gage has a chance to see the field in Week 1 as he's expected to serve as the team's WR5 and play limited snaps if needed. While fantasy production isn't likely, simply seeing Gage back on the field after such a long recovery is a great story and an encouraging sign for San Francisco's depth moving forward.

Friday, November 14, 12:30 AM

New York Jets wide receiver John Metchie III caught all three of his targets for 45 yards and a touchdown during Thursday's Week 11 loss against the New England Patriots. Metchie played 82.5 percent of the snaps in the defeat, shattering his previous season-high snap share of 16 percent. Thursday's game also featured Metchie's first touchdown this season and just the second of his career. The 25-year-old was presented with increased opportunities to contribute on primetime television after Garrett Wilson (knee) was placed on injured reserve. The Jets may ride the hot hand in the passing game going forward, but Metchie has an early leg up on the rest of his competition. He can be viewed as a low-end WR3/flex in deeper leagues ahead of Week 12 against the Baltimore Ravens.