6 NFC South rival 2022 draft picks the Carolina Panthers should fear
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers should fear Chris Olave
Everyone was eagerly awaiting to see how the New Orleans Saints would approach the first round after acquiring two selections thanks to a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles. Once the run on wide receivers began, Mickey Loomis made his move up the pecking order to select Chris Olave, who is arguably the most polished pass-catcher entering the league this year.
Olave’s route-running is ultra-crisp and already ready for his next challenge. His speed is exceptional and the hand-eye coordination displayed by the former Ohio State star is another massive thing working in his favor.
New Orleans is expected to get Michael Thomas back to full health this season. Olave’s presence gives the Saints a dynamic one-two punch for quarterback Jameis Winston to utilize, which can only help the one-time No. 1 overall selection get his career back on track.
As stated previously, the Carolina Panthers are pretty deep at cornerback despite losing Stephon Gilmore in free agency. The tandem of Jaycee Horn and Donte Jackson will be tasked with thwarting the Saints’ threat, which one suspects will go a long way to determining the outcome of their divisional games.
Olave has all the makings of a star. One that could make a substantial impression from the moment he steps onto the field in a competitive setting.