Who Should I Start? Russell Gage Jr. or Tez Johnson

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 28, 7:59 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Tez Johnson has been a solid red zone threat for this offense recently. Johnson has scored three touchdowns over his last three games. Sadly, the yardage hasn't been there as Johnson has been held to 42 yards or fewer in two of his last three games. It's also worth noting that quarterback Baker Mayfield (shoulder) is banged up coming into this game. It's unclear how well Mayfield is going to be able to pass this weekend. Fellow wideout Chris Godwin should see a larger role this weekend after being eased back into action last week. Johnson has decent upside, but should be viewed as a touchdown-dependent option for the Week 13 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.