**New Orleans Saints’ Chris Olave Out for Week 18 Due to Blood Clot**
**Meta Description:** Saints’ star receiver Chris Olave will miss Week 18 after a blood clot was discovered in his lung, impacting playoff scenarios in the NFC South.
**URL Slug:** saints-chris-olave-week-18-injury-update
**New Orleans Saints’ Chris Olave Out for Week 18 Due to Blood Clot**
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave will not participate in Week 18 after a blood clot was reportedly detected in his lung. The condition was identified early, and Olave is anticipated to be released from the hospital soon, as reported by Saints insider Nick Underhill. This 25-year-old former Ohio State standout has no previous history of blood clots and is expected to be sidelined for approximately a month, according to ESPN.
In the current season, Olave has made a significant impact, recording 100 receptions for 1,163 yards and nine touchdowns over 16 games. His 100 catches rank sixth in the NFL, while his receiving yards place him seventh. The Saints are heading into their Week 18 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons on a four-game winning streak, with Olave’s chemistry with rookie quarterback Tyler Shough being a key factor in their success. During this winning streak, Olave has amassed 27 receptions for 382 yards and four touchdowns.
Olave’s absence carries playoff implications for the NFC South. The Carolina Panthers, who are set to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday, can clinch the division with a victory or if the Saints lose to the Falcons. Should the Panthers win, the Saints-Falcons game will have no playoff significance. Conversely, if the Buccaneers win, the outcome of the Saints-Falcons matchup will determine the NFC South champion. A loss for the Saints would allow the Buccaneers to advance, while a victory would secure the division for the Saints.
The Buccaneers and Panthers are scheduled to play on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. ET, while the Saints will take on the Falcons at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.
**FAQ**
**Q: How long will Chris Olave be out due to his injury?**
A: Chris Olave is expected to be sidelined for about a month following the discovery of a blood clot in his lung.
