Saints preseason setback vs. Chargers exposes two recurring flaws: offensive line depth and lack of pass-catching upside behind Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed. New Orleans ran for 61 yards and allowed five sacks, with the starting intact only on the first drive. Shrough, Rattler, and Haener had to push the pace behind a shallow O-line, and Trevor Penning left with an injury, heightening concerns about interior protection. WR depth remains thin; Mason Tipton flashed but the group lacks a true late-depth threat beyond Olave and Shaheed, fueling chatter about veteran options.

Speculation swirls that Keenan Allen or Amari Cooper could land in New Orleans to stabilize the offense, while Brandin Cooks’ prior ties to the organization add intrigue. Bub Means’ injury status is uncertain, and Bub Means’ absence would further test the depth. If NO can pull in a proven veteran and fix OL depth, Olave’s target share could stay elite, with Shaheed scaling in big-play upside and Tipton fighting for real game-ready snaps. Jake Haener’s and Shough’s chances hinge on protection and a healthier WR corps, making the QB competition pivotal for fantasy forecasts.