For the first two days of practices, New Orleans Saints star wide receiver Chris Olave has not been able to participate due to illness. His potential return to the practice field on Friday now looms large over the Saints’ upcoming matchup against the New York Giants.
Olave, a player who could certainly take the field without practicing, has been the team’s leading receiver since he exploded onto the scene in Week 1 with a 182-receiving-yard performance at Detroit to open the season.
His 537 receiving yards rank No. 2 in the NFL going into Week 6 and he has been the core focus of quarterback Tyler Shough’s passing attack.
Shough’s passing yards, 41.3% to be exact, have come from completions tp Olave with strong contributions of 252 yards going to fellow wideout Devaughn Vele and 248 to tight end Juwan Johnson.
While Shough has been able to develop and maintain reliable connections with other players, the passing game thus far has revolved around Olave’s explosive play.
If Olave returns to practice on Friday or is cleared to compete on game day, that threat for the Saints will continue.
Without him, the Saints are likely to have to get both practice squad receivers, Cedric Tillman and Kevin Austin Jr., up to the game day roster.
Meanwhile Vele along with rookies Bryce Lance and Barion Brown would lead the way from the active roster.
If New Orleans can get its run game going against the Giants’ No. 24 ranked rushing defense, the team could manage better without Olave. Especially with Vele as the top option and seeing a heavier target share. But there’s no doubt that the Saints would be far better off with No. 12 in the field than off of it.
Olave’s health and availability will be a critical storyline to follow as the face off with the Giants nears.
