Saints WR Olave sidelined for season finale due to lung blood clot

The New Orleans Saints will be without star wide receiver Chris Olave for their season finale after he developed a blood clot in his lung.

Why it matters: Olave's absence comes at a critical juncture for the Saints, who are looking to end their season on a high note against division rivals, the Atlanta Falcons. His impact on the team has been significant this year, as evidenced by his career-best stats.

• With 1,163 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, Olave has established himself as a key playmaker since being drafted in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
• The Saints will need to rely on other receivers to fill the void left by Olave, affecting their offensive strategy in the crucial final game.

What’s new: The diagnosis of a blood clot is concerning, particularly given Olave’s past health issues, which have included concussions and back injuries.

• He had previously expressed a determination to play all 17 games this season, a goal that now remains unfulfilled.
• Olave was seen as a vital component in the Saints' passing attack, and his loss could disrupt their offensive rhythm.

Yes, but: Despite his health setback, Olave’s future remains optimistic. The Saints expect him to make a full recovery within a month, suggesting that he should be ready for the offseason training program.

• This is noteworthy because he does not have a history of blood clots, mitigating fears about long-term health implications.
• His immediate focus will likely shift to rehabilitation and preparing for the next season.

What to watch: As the Saints prepare for the offseason, they will need to consider Olave’s contract status, especially if no extension is reached before he enters his fifth-year option prior to the 2026 season.

• Olave's performance this season substantially boosts his negotiating power, making any potential contract discussions particularly interesting.
• Offseason decisions will also impact how the Saints structure their offense moving forward, especially if they want to maximize Olave's talents alongside potential additions to the roster.

The bottom line: Missing the season finale is a disappointment for Olave, who has shown resilience throughout a challenging season filled with injuries.

• He previously faced uncertainty regarding his career due to head injuries but rebounded impressively in 2023.
• As he recovers from this latest health hurdle, Olave’s determination and skill set will remain pivotal to the Saints' success in upcoming seasons.