Pro Football Focus analyst Trevor Sikkema highlighted the NFL’s top 25 players who have yet to celebrate their 25th birthday — and only one New Orleans Saints standout made the cut. Second-year wide receiver Chris Olave represented the Saints on Sikkema’s list, clocking in at No. 23. Here’s what Sikkema wrote of Olave:
“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.”
The Saints will be leaning on Olave in a big way this year; it’s no sure thing that Michael Thomas will remain healthy often enough to lead the charge offensively with him, and Rashid Shaheed needs to show he can continue to produce on a heavier workload. Olave has already put in work with his new quarterback Derek Carr to prepare for an important season.
Olave just turned 23 years old a month ago on June 27, so he’s younger than many of his rookie teammates (including 24-year-old quarterback Jake Haener). He’s started his career strong and looks like a building-block for the Saints for years to come. It’s on him to keep up the momentum and meet that expectation.
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