Saints' playmaker receives big kudos from national media
The Ohio State Buckeyes have turned into a factory for wide receivers, and the New Orleans Saints have benefited greatly from it. Of course, Michael Thomas, who the Saints drafted in 2016, is the first name that comes to mind. New Orleans went back to Columbus in last year's NFL Draft and took Chris Olave […]
The Ohio State Buckeyes have turned into a factory for wide receivers, and the New Orleans Saints have benefited greatly from it. Of course, Michael Thomas, who the Saints drafted in 2016, is the first name that comes to mind.
New Orleans went back to Columbus in last year's NFL Draft and took Chris Olave with the 11th overall pick. Despite playing with multiple quarterbacks, Olave tallied 1,042 yards and four touchdowns on 72 receptions.
Olave didn't make the Pro Bowl or receive All-Pro honors but he was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team. Earlier this week, he got another tip of the hat from Pro Football Focus as he came in at No.23 on their top 25 players under 25 list.
Olave finished his 2022 rookie campaign with an 82.9 receiving grade. He recorded 24 explosive plays of 20 yards or more, which was a top-10 mark among players under 25. His 14.9-yard average depth of target was one of the higher marks in the league, which showcases his deep-threat ability.
Olave only had three drops during his rookie campaign and racked up 219 yards after the catch. He was also versatile with his reps as he logged 297 as an outside receiver and 152 in the slot, and 48 of his receptions went for first downs.
The Saints are entering a new era at quarterback with Derek Carr, and the aforementioned Thomas staying healthy will make things a lot smoother. If Thomas can stay on the field it also benefits Olave, whether he's in the slot or outside because the former is versatile as well, and the latter can get more one-on-one chances this year than he did a season ago.
Olvae is immensely talented and don't be surprised if he's knocking on the door of being a Pro Bowl-level player in 2023.
