Chris Olave & Rasheed Shaheed's return has this writer the edge of his seat

Chris Olave and Rasheed Shaheed have the potential to become one of the league's most electrifying duos. The two young receivers returned to the football field during the Saints mandatory minicamp, after their seasons were both cut short due to injuries. Many people are extremely excited to see them make a return in 2025, including Bleacher Reports Kristopher Knox, who placed the the duo in his NFL "Players Returning From Injury We Can't Wait to See in 2025 Training Camps" list.

Knox believes that the season ending injuries that Olave and Shaheed suffered were a major cause of the Saints downfall in 2024. "Last season, the New Orleans Saints got off to a 2-0 start before injuries began to mount and the losses piled up. Top receivers Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed were among the team's most notable injuries," Knox stated.

Knox also explained why the Saints offense will benefit in their return. "The Saints will benefit greatly from having both men back, for a couple of reasons. For one, New Orleans has a new head coach in Kellen Moore, who is likely to revamp the offense significantly," Knox explained.

Saints are ecstatic for the return of their young star receiver

Olave is one of the best young receivers in the NFL. The young star recorded over 1,000 yards in his first 2 seasons. Unfortunately, this streak would come to an end in 2024, as concussions were the reason for his 9-game absence. Olave finished the 2024 campaign with 32 catches, 400 yards, and 1 touchdown in 8 games. Despite his numbers taking a slight decline, he managed to catch an incredible 72.7% of his passes which was a big leap from the previous two seasons.

The Saints desperately missed Olave in 2024. His 8-game absence was a major factor in the offense finishing 24th in points per game. The concussions remain a big concern, but when healthy, Olave is one of the most productive receivers in the league. His tremendous route running, deep threat ability and strong hands makes him invaluable to the Saints offense. Olave could have his best season in a brand-new offense under head coach Kellen Moore.

Shaheed brings the boost back to the Saints offense

Shaheed is a key piece in the Saints offense; he provides speed and versatility as a receiver and return specialist. Shaheed was on pace to have a career year in 2024 before his season was cut short due to a torn meniscus that required surgery. He posted 20 catches for 349 yards, and 3 touchdowns in only 6 games.

When Shaheed's season was cut short, the Saints not only lost their best deep threat, but they also lost an All-Pro returner in the special teams. Saints' fans are very excited to see Shaheed hit the football field again, his talent and production just couldn't be replaced when he went down with an injury.

Shaheed has so much potential and new head coach Kellen Moore is the perfect guy to maximize it. Shaheed could possibly see a breakout year in 2025 and become a familiar name to fans around the NFL.