Who Should I Start? Russell Gage or Mecole Hardman

Sunday, August 20, 8:44 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Russell Gage (knee) has officially been placed on the injured reserve on Sunday. Gage will miss the entire 2023 campaign after suffering a torn patellar tendon during Wednesday's joint practice with the New York Jets. The 27-year-old dealt with multiple injuries last season that limited him to 13 games. He finally looked healthy during training camp, but unfortunately suffered this season-ending injury. Gage will now sit out his third and final year of his contract with Tampa Bay. The Bucs already have Mike Evans and Chris Godwin locked into the first two receiver spots. However, the third wideout job is completely wide open right now. It'll be interesting to see if someone is able to set themselves apart during the final preseason game.

Saturday, August 26, 9:34 PM

New York Jets wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. (finger) "is fine" despite exiting Saturday's game early, head coach Robert Saleh told the media. The 25-year-old had been trending up after a strong showing during his first training camp with the Jets, so it's refreshing to learn that Saleh doesn't believe his injury is too serious. Over his final two seasons (25 games) with the Chiefs, Hardman amassed 84 catches, 990 yards, and six touchdowns. Assuming Hardman is able to play in Week 1, he'll likely do so as the No. 3 receiver behind Garrett Wilson and Allen Lazard. Consider him a modest streaming option in the WR5 or WR6 range.