Who Should I Start? Russell Gage Jr. or Pat Bryant

Sunday, August 3, 11:01 AM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Russell Gage has "run some really crisp routes" in training camp practices and has drawn the praise of quarterback Brock Purdy, according to Vic Tafur of The Athletic. The veteran wideout has been forced into a more prominent training camp role as a result of injuries to San Francisco receivers Brandon Aiyuk (knee), Jauan Jennings (calf), and Jacob Cowing (hamstring). Gage last appeared in an NFL game in 2022 for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In 74 career games, he's recorded 244 catches for 2,491 yards and 14 touchdowns. Gage is probably still a long shot to make an impact in fantasy this season, but he could earn some playing time early in the season if San Francisco continues to deal with injuries in their wide receiver room.

Sunday, August 17, 1:15 PM

Denver Broncos rookie fifth-round wide receiver Pat Bryant made his mark in the team's second preseason game on Saturday evening against the visiting Arizona Cardinals, catching four of his five targets for a team-high 70 yards. Bryant's four receptions and five targets also tied with Troy Franklin for the team lead on the night, as he one of backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham's favorite target. The 22-year-old has had a solid showing so far through the first two weeks of the preseason as he prepares for his first year in the NFL. He does not stand out for his athleticism or speed, but head coach Sean Payton had an eye for him because he reminds him of former Saints wideout Michael Thomas. Bryant is just inside RotoBaller's top 100 WR rankings. He's one to watch, but he could have a tough time finding playing time behind Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims Jr. and Franklin.