The 2022 draft class at the @NFLPA Rookie Premiere in Los Angeles.
@kevinkoskiphoto pic.twitter.com/RkfQDcXJI9
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 21, 2022
Rookie New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave is representing his new team in Los Angeles this weekend as a part of the NFL Players’ Association Rookie Premiere. ESPN’s Adam Schefter shared a photo of the 42 rookies participating in this year’s event, providing fans with another look at the former Buckeye now wearing black and gold.
According to the NFLPA’s website, the Rookie Premiere event “provides partners with unmatched access to 40 of the NFL’s newest stars at their first major business and marketing event following the NFL Draft.” They go on to describe the gathering as “one of the most valuable opportunities available to NFLPA partners because it’s the first time to connect directly with professional football’s most promising and marketable young players–all in one place—and build content and relationships that extend into the season and beyond.”
Certainly a speedy wide receiver operating alongside one of the NFL’s most talented wideouts in Michael Thomas will find himself to be very marketable at the next level. Olave has the makings of a star as he gets under way in New Orleans, especially with a quarterback like Jameis Winston set to find him downfield all season long. The Rookie Premiere group usually brings a Madden Ultimate Team card for the players participating, so if you’re a Madden player you may be able to experience the Winston-to-Olave connection earlier than others.
The last substantial pass-catcher to don No. 12 for New Orleans was Marques Colston. Colston still holds many franchise records including the all-time receiving yards and receiving touchdowns titles. Some fans have mentioned that, because of Colston’s importance to the franchise, that Olave should not move forward with his number, which he has worn through rookie minicamps and is pictured wearing at the Rookie Premiere. However, the number doesn’t seem to be one that the Saints are too concerned with considering pass-catchers Marquez Callaway and Kenny Stills have worn it in recent years. Olave could switch later on, but his previously-worn numbers at Ohio State are, for now, taken — Nos. 2 and 17.
As far as I’m concerned, keep the legacy of No. 12 alive. Especially if there’s going to be a heavy amount of marketing pushed Olave’s way. He’s certainly going to draw enough attention himself with his big play ability in the Big Easy.