Who Should I Start? Russell Gage Jr. or Johnny Wilson

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.

Thursday, August 21, 1:42 PM

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Johnny Wilson (knee, ankle) will undergo surgery on his knee and ankle and miss the entire 2025 season, according to Jeff McLane of The Philadelphia Inquirer. Wilson suffered the injuries in practice on Tuesday. The 24-year-old was selected in the sixth round by the Eagles in 2024 and appeared in 16 games as a rookie, recording five catches. Wilson was expected to play a larger role on offense in his second season, but that will now have to wait until 2026. Philadelphia acquired wide receiver John Metchie III from the Houston Texans earlier this week, and Metchie III looks like the favorite to take Wilson's role as the team's WR4.