Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Russell Gage channels his inner Randy Moss. | Twitter
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Russell Gage channels his inner Randy Moss. | Twitter
Shipping longtime wideout Julio Jones to the Titans last summer created a void in the Falcons offense, one that has been seemingly filled by fourth-year veteran Russell Gage.
During Atlanta’s scramble for a playoff berth, which hit a major snag on Dec. 19 on the road against the 49ers, Gage showed that he could be the viable replacement the Falcons sought in the wake of Jones’s departure.
A team-issued press release said that Gage was a bright spot in the 31-13 loss to San Francisco.
According to the release, the 2018 sixth-round pick from LSU hauled in a pass that legendary wide receiver Randy Moss would be proud of.
The Falcons explained that Gage was well covered by 49ers defensive back Ambry Thomas but managed to leap and grab a toss from Matt Ryan, who was at the San Francisco 20.
The play was good enough for airtime on ESPN.
"That brings energy to the team, and that was a heck of a catch," safety Duron Harmon said on the team's website. "It's good to see Russ steadily improving, getting more and more comfortable, and each week he comes up with a big catch every week."
Gage ended the afternoon with eight receptions for 91 yards and a touchdown to continue his quest to becoming one of Atlanta’s most consistent offensive weapons, the team reported.
A reception draught and a high ankle sprain earlier this season notwithstanding, he has emerged as a go-to target for Ryan, catching at least six receptions for at least 60 yards during the final stretch of the season.
"I understand I play a big role in this offense," Gage said on the team’s website. "... So my confidence is already there. I'm just thinking about how we can win."
After a 20-16 win against the Detroit Lions on Dec. 26, Atlanta rounds out the campaign against the Bills and the Saints.
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