PFF ranks the Saints with the 23rd best WR group
By: Jake Rajala
It’s blasphemous. The ole, reliable PFF outlet dubbed the Saints with the 23rd best WR group. They basically said Rashid Shaheed has injury concerns. Then they said Brandin Cooks hasn’t topped a grade above 70 in two years. The lack of analysis for a group of very gifted WRs is baffling.
I believe that Shaheed is a 1k yard WR, similar to Olave. He averaged 58.2 YPG, which equals out to 989.4 on the season. He had 96 yards off four catches and a touchdown in the Cowboys contest. He also recorded 73 yards and a TD on three grabs! He also was blossoming and starting to discover his true potential.
I do have to admit that Olave has injury concerns. He’s fought concussions since he came out of the womb. His future is more important than football. He hauled in 1,123 yards in 2023 (while missing one game). He had 400 yards off 8 games last season. His 82.4 PFF grade was 15th among WRs. If he can stay healthy, he should take that next step and reach a Pro Bowl berth.
Brandin Cooks has been on the down low over the past few seasons. Nonetheless, he still recorded eight touchdowns last season. He was also playing with a back-up QB. His speed is also something that will stick with him until the mid 30s. We’ve witnessed Desean Jackson and Tedd Ginn Jr. play a long time, thanks to their speed.
I expect all three of the Saints starting wideouts to improve from an improved QB. The 0-9 version of Spencer Rattler won’t be on display next season. He’s vastly improved his chemistry with the weapons, particularly the big two WRs.
Tyler Shough may also be the QB1. He has a beautiful deep throw and he excels at making throws on the run. Olave and Shaheed will learn how to keep running and find space with either QB in the game. He also showed impressive command of his college offense, which was similar to a Pro style offense.
Kellen Moore is also too good to not maximize the potential of Shaheed, Olave, and the veteran Brandin Cooks. He is the reigning Super Bowl Champion for God’s sake. I expect Shaheed and Olave to have career seasons and Cooks to be a threat often, as well.
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