Rashid Shaheed Injury Update: Should fantasy managers be concerned about Saints WR for Week 1?

Wide receiver Rashid Shaheed has grown into one of the most important players on the New Orleans Saints roster. The wideout, who will enter his third season with the team in 2024, earned his first Pro Bowl honor last season.

While Shaheed is among the top picks for fantasy football, some are worried about his availability for the Saints' Week 1 clash against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.

Rashid Shaheed injury update for Saints' season-opener

New Orleans Saints WR Rashid Shaheed - Source: Imagn

As things stand, fantasy managers should not be concerned while drafting Rashid Shaheed since he is expected to play in Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season. A report from the Saints claimed that the wideout is "good to go" against Carolina.

Shaheed had been dealing with a foot/toe injury since mid-August. He was battling a hamstring strain before that. Last week, Shaheed returned to training with his New Orleans teammates and expressed his delight at being back on the field.

“It felt really, really good today." Shaheed said. "I feel like I didn’t lose a step. I stayed on top of everything that I needed to throughout the rehab process, so I would be able to be fast and play free and be on the same page with our quarterbacks.

“The offense is complex, but if you stay on top of it, you’ll be fine,” Shaheed added.

Shaheed concluded the 2023 regular season with 719 yards on 46 receptions and five touchdowns, all of which were career highs. He also had 384 kickoff return yards and 339 punt return yards, with one touchdown.

In total, Shaheed tallied 149.6 fantasy points in 15 games, averaging just under 10 FPPG. He will want to better those numbers in the 2024 season.

Shaheed performed well with Saints quarterback Derek Carr last season. Furthermore, he is favored to do well against the Panthers defense in Week 1.

The Saints could use Shaheed to dial up some big plays early. His versatility also helps in boosting his fantasy points.