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Quarterback Tom Brady has had a multitude of offensive weapons at his disposal this season. Despite the retirement of tight end Rob Gronkowski and multiple injury issues to key guys, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are not short at the skill positions.
There has been one player who has found a role, but only when he has been needed. This past week was a clear example of such, as Tampa Bay wide receiver Russell Gage filled in more than admirably for injured teammate Julio Jones (knee).
Is this a sign of things to come for Gage? Should you pick him up in fantasy leagues after his Week 15 showing? Let's examine this further.
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What Did Russell Gage Do in Week 15?
Stepping in as the number three receiver for the injury-prone Jones, Gage not only produced for fantasy managers, he hit a home run. But the question is, did you take a chance and play him?
On Sunday, the Buccaneers receiver led the team in targets (12) for 59 yards and two touchdowns in the 34-23 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. I'm sorry, he did what?
Yes, he sure did. Playing on 62% of the snaps, he ran a route on 33 of the team's 42 dropbacks and was targeted on an incredible 36.5% of his routes.
Were There Any Worrying Signs With Russell Gage in Week 15?
This past weekend, Gage had his most productive outing since Week 3 against Green Bay when he had 12 receptions for 87 yards and a touchdown.
The numbers tell the story. Quarterback Tom Brady's top-two weapons are Chris Godwin and Mike Evans, which is not up for debate. However, Gage has had a knack for finding the football when he has been the third option, particularly in the end zone.
On the season, Gage is tied for the team lead in touchdowns (three) while only playing in 10 games. What does this mean? It means when healthy and others are not, he produces fantasy gold.
Should I Pickup Russell Gage Off the Waiver Wire in Fantasy Football For Week 16?
The equation that equals fantasy success in this situation is fairly simple. Gage's two biggest weeks this season came when one of Brady's top-three receivers wasn't playing. In those games, he has capitalized on his opportunities and converted them into targets, touchdowns, and points.
If Jones sits again in Week 16 versus the Arizona Cardinals, it's hard to debate whether Gage is a solid WR3 or flex play. Based on his limited results when being the replacement option, feel confident putting him in your lineup as you chase a fantasy championship.
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