Tampa Bay Buccaneers wideout Russell Gage didn’t see any playing action in 2023 after suffering a torn patellar tendon in training camp, and it’s unfortunately possible that he won’t get a chance to make up for it in Tampa Bay for 2024.
Pro Football Focus released a list of cut candidates for each NFL team heading into the offseason, and writer Brad Spielberger chose Gage as one for the Bucs. He discussed Gage’s injury history and the work Tampa Bay has to do in the offseason with other free agents as a potential reason:
“Gage was unable to stay healthy during his time in Tampa, and the Buccaneers may have to pay up big time to retain franchise legend Mike Evans. Even if not, rookie Trey Palmer developed into a solid option in the passing game and Tampa Bay will need to reorganize its books with major paydays looming for Baker Mayfield, Antoine Winfield and Tristan Wirfs.”
It is true that Gage has struggled with injury in Tampa Bay. He missed all of 2023 with that patellar tendon injury, but he also missed three games in 2022 due to injury as well. While Gage was a solid wide receiver coming out of Atlanta, his troubles staying on the field could result in his departure with a post-June 1 cut in the offseason.
Should the Bucs indeed cut Gage post-June 1 as mentioned, they’d save $10 million on the salary cap for 2024 per Over the Cap — a big opening. If they were to do it before June 1, they’d save $6,448,000 and take on over double the dead money.
Edge rusher Shaquil Barrett is another possible cap casualty. Cutting him post-June 1 would result in saving $4,923,882 for the 2024 salary cap, opening up room as well.
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