A rough offseason has just become that much worse for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The loss of numerous important players in free agency has been difficult in its own regard, and a recent injury could complicate matters even further.

In a bit of terrible news that couldn't come at a worse time, it looks like the Buccaneers could be without starting wide receiver Russell Gage in 2023.

#Bucs WR Russell Gage suffered a non-contact knee injury during today's joint practice with the #Jets and the belief heading into exams is that the severe injury will end his season, per me and @MikeGarafolo. A hit to WR depth and crushing for Gage.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 16, 2023

After losing Ryan Jensen for the entirety of last season, the Buccaneers losing another starter during the preseason feels like a sick joke, but it seems like that is exactly what is happening again.

The timing of this whole situation couldn't be worse for Gage. After a lackluster first season in Tampa (that was marred by injuries), this was supposed to finally be the year where Gage was in a good position to break out and prove his worth to the team when finally healthy.

Now, Gage is likely going to have to kick that can down the road again, and the Buccaneers will have an even harder time determining whether they need to keep Gage longterm.

Hopefully the news changes and comes back better than what is expected, but it doesn't look good for the Bucs or Russell Gage right now.

Buccaneers’ Todd Bowles opens up on Russell Gage’s mysterious injury

It’s a frustrating situation that will hopefully remedy itself, soon.

Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports