49ers may get some much-needed WR help from player whose career almost ended

Can Comeback Kid Russell Gage Save the 49ers' Receiving Corps?

The San Francisco 49ers are desperate for help at wide receiver, and an unlikely contender might be stepping up. Veteran Russell Gage, sidelined by injuries since 2022, is making a surprising push to earn a roster spot.

Gage’s Long Road Back

After tearing his patellar tendon in training camp last year following a neck injury suffered the previous season, Gage appeared destined for retirement. He briefly joined the Baltimore Ravens' practice squad before landing with the 49ers in November. His performance in limited opportunities, due to injuries plaguing other receivers, has caught the eye of head coach Kyle Shanahan.

“Yeah, he’s definitely given himself a chance,” Shanahan told reporters after Thursday's joint practice with the Denver Broncos. “I think Russ had a really good offseason. You know, I've always been a fan of Russell since he came out of college. I was a huge fan of his when he was in Atlanta and he signed that big deal with Tampa. Then he had some really bad luck with some injuries that almost ended his career, and I think he took about a year and a half off, I'm going to guess. We got him last year to put on our practice squad and you could see him throughout the whole year working to get his legs back and to get back in receiver shape and be able to handle the cuts after his injuries. I think the way he finished last year was really positive. He put the work in this offseason and I think he's back to being a really good NFL player now and fighting to make this team."

A Vital Piece for San Francisco?

With Brandon Aiyuk recovering from a knee injury, Jauan Jennings sidelined with a calf issue, and Jacob Cowing out with a hamstring injury, the 49ers receiving corps is riddled with question marks. Gage’s experience – 74 NFL games under his belt – could provide much-needed stability.

His success would be a major win for San Francisco, offering a veteran presence to a group lacking proven production.