Continuing with our 2021 Atlanta Falcons fantasy preview series, today we round out the wide receiver position with Russell Gage. Over the past few weeks, we’ve looked at quarterback Matt Ryan, running back Mike Davis and fellow wideout Calvin Ridley.
While many are predicting Gage to be the main beneficiary of the Julio Jones trade, the situation isn’t as cut and dry with rookie tight end Kyle Pitts in the fold and the team transitioning to a more balanced offense under Arthur Smith.
In 2020, Gage posted career highs in targets (108), receptions (72), yards (786) and touchdowns (4). With an extra game starting in 2021, these numbers could obviously be eclipsed, but in large part, remain the same on a per game basis. Gage may be the Falcons’ No. 2 receiver behind Ridley, but will still have to fight for targets with Pitts, Hayden Hurst and Olamide Zaccheaus.
What to expect from Gage in 2021
Usually, there is a significant difference between ESPN and Pro Football Focus. However, on the instance of Gage, the projections are more or less the same. Both outlets predict less targets, receptions and yards for the fourth-year receiver this season.
Gage’s most favorable matchups
- Week 1: Philadelphia Eagles
- Week 2 / 13: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Week 5: New York jets
- Week 10: Dallas Cowboys
- Week 12: Jacksonville Jaguars
- Week 16: Detroit Lions
Gage’s least favorable matchups
- Week 4: Washington Football team
- Week 8 / 14: Carolina Panthers
- Week 11: New England Patriots
- Week 17: Buffalo Bills
Final Verdict
Gage is undraftable. Sure, he’s the No. 2 receiver on a team that has steadily produced quality depth at the receiver position, but the presumptive makeup of the Falcons’ offense in 2021 doesn’t bend to that standard anymore.
The average draft position for Gage has increased over the past month, but he’s still more valuable getting picked up as a free agent. Considering that the later rounds should be more focused on defense and kickers, drafting Gage could result in getting minimum value for your pick.
[lawrence-related id=76421,76379,76452,76445]
[vertical-gallery id=76377]