Saints’ Chris Olave is said to be in the hospital due to a blood clot in his lung.

Chris Olave Out for Week 18

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave will miss the team’s Week 18 game due to a blood clot in his lung. Fortunately, a reporter from the Saints noted that the condition was detected early, and Olave is expected to be released from the hospital on Thursday. Reports indicate that he has no prior history of blood clots and the expectation is that he will be out for about a month.

Olave, who is 25 years old, has had an impressive season. He recorded 100 catches for 1,163 yards and nine touchdowns over 16 games. His 100 receptions and 1,163 yards rank among the top in the NFL, specifically sixth and seventh most, respectively.

The Saints are heading into their Week 18 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons with a strong four-game winning streak. A significant factor in this success has been the rapport between Olave and rookie quarterback Tyler Shaw. During this streak, Olave amassed 27 catches for 382 yards and four touchdowns.

Olave’s absence could have playoff implications for the NFC South. The Carolina Panthers, who face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday, could clinch the NFC South title with a win or if the Saints lose to the Falcons. Should the Panthers win, the Saints-Falcons game will have no playoff stakes. Conversely, if the Buccaneers win on Saturday, the outcome of the Saints versus Falcons game will determine the NFC South champion. If the Saints lose, the Buccaneers will move forward in the playoffs, but if the Saints win, the Panthers will take the division.