The New Orleans Saints could play without the services of star wide receiver Chris Olave this weekend. Olave suffered a hamstring injury during practice on Friday and his status for Week 4 is currently uncertain.

ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter noted that Olave is currently “day-to-day” with the injury.

If Olave can't play against the Atlanta Falcons, it would be a huge loss for the Saints. Olave has developed into one of the better young pass catchers in the NFL, so his absence would be sorely missed.

In three games this season, Olave has caught 12 passes for 178 yards and one touchdown. He was a favorite target of quarterback Derek Carr. So if he can't keep up, others at the Saints would have to step in.

The focus would shift to the running game if Olave had to miss that game. Running back Alvin Kamara has been great for the Saints so far this season and has shown throughout his career that he is more than capable of shouldering an offensive attack.

New Orleans will play this game in Atlanta and the Falcons' defense has improved this season, particularly in the secondary. The hope is that Olave can shake off this injury and play this season, but a hamstring injury can be difficult.

The last thing New Orleans wants to do is have this problem continue all season or get worse every time he plays. Since he only sustained this injury a few days before kick-off, he is unlikely to feature unless it was just a minor change.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SEPTEMBER 22: Chris Olave #12 of the New Orleans Saints catches a touchdown pass against the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth quarter at Caesars Superdome on September 22, 2024 in New Orleans.


Photo by Gus Stark/Getty Images

The Saints have been one of the better surprises so far this season, showing dominance on the field. Their offense was electrifying to watch and Olave was a big part of it.

It could be difficult to beat the Falcons without Olave, so the hope is that he can return to the field. Playing a division game so early in the season can have a big impact on the outcome of the seedings, so each side will be looking to take advantage.

Atlanta will bring two crucial pieces back into play this weekend, so New Orleans could be in trouble. We should find out more about Olave's status the next day before kick-off on Sunday.

Read more: “Falcons bring back two key stars ahead of showdown with Saints”

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