Saints get massive bad news as star WR suffers brutal lung issue ahead of Week 18 game

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave will miss Week 18 after a blood clot was detected in his lung, according to NOF Network’s Nick Underhill. It was caught early, and while the long-term outlook is positive, Olave will sit out the regular-season finale as he undergoes treatment.

The Saints coaching staff and medical staff will monitor Olave’s recovery closely as the team prepares for offseason decisions on personnel and quarterback direction.

Olave recorded 100 receptions for 1,163 yards and nine touchdowns on 155 targets across 16 games.

Olave played a huge role in the 34-26 win against the Tennessee Titans in Week 17. He finished with eight receptions for 119 yards and one TD. The TD came on a 19-yard pass from Tyler Shough in the second half, contributing to New Orleans’ comeback victory.

The wideout has consistently been a primary target for the Saints. His strong route running, passing attack and big-play ability were on full display throughout the season. Olave’s absence on Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons is significant as New Orleans’ offense is already dealing with injuries and inconsistency.

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Ten Saints players, including Chris Olave, missed Wednesday’s practice ahead of Week 18

Ten New Orleans Saints players missed practice on Wednesday, including wide receiver Chris Olave. The team is preparing for its season finale versus the Atlanta Falcons.

The Saints held a light walkthrough following a normal practice, but the injury report was extensive. Olave was listed as a DNP due to illness, not because of the back injury that has bothered him in recent weeks. Running back Alvin Kamara was also absent and has not practiced since suffering a knee injury in the Nov. 23 loss to the Falcons.

Others who did not practice were quarterback Spencer Rattler (right finger), guard Dillon Radunz (knee), tight end Jack Stoll (knee) and cornerback Michael Davis (shoulder). Tight end Zaire Mitchell-Paden, defensive tackle Nathan Shepherd (ankle/knee), defensive tackle Bryan Bresee (knee) and wide receiver Mason Tipton (groin) also missed the session.

New Orleans coach Kellen Moore said Radunz’s injury was discovered on Monday, while Rattler’s injury is not considered serious. Moore also confirmed that Stoll will not play on Sunday.

Linebacker Demario Davis (calf) and guard Cesar Ruiz (ankle) were limited. However, Ruiz participated after missing two games.