Chris Olave’s NFL career so far has been a mix of highs and lows—despite his solid on-field performance. Through three seasons, the wide receiver has dealt with multiple injuries, most notably concussions, which have limited his production. That was especially true in 2024, when he played in just eight games.
Those setbacks raise concerns about his long-term future with the New Orleans Saints. As Olave enters his fourth season, he has yet to play a full 17-game schedule. With a potential contract extension looming, the receiver said he isn’t worried about future concussions and remains confident he’ll bounce back strong in 2025.
Chris Olave Is Not Worried About His Concussion History
Few injuries in the NFL raise more concern than concussions—especially in a sport built on constant head-to-head collisions.
The long-term neurological risks, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), have prompted the league to implement wide-ranging changes in recent years.
In Olave’s case, concussions have become a recurring issue during each of his three NFL seasons. He suffered one in Week 6 of 2022, again in Week 13 of 2023, and twice more in Weeks 7 and 10 of 2024. He also missed Week 16 last year due to a head injury and remained questionable for the rest of the season.
Still, Olave doesn’t seem overly concerned about his concussion history or the risk of future setbacks. After consulting with specialists last season, the wide receiver told reporters he views them more as unfortunate moments than a chronic concern.
“They said I was OK back in December when they cleared me,” Olave said. “It was just unlucky situations I was being put in. God’s got me at the end of the day. I’m not worried about nothing. So, just got to go out there 100% and be ready.”
twelve. @chrisolave_. pic.twitter.com/AHq6VdmXyP
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) June 11, 2025
Olave has reportedly looked sharp during offseason practices and says he’s been fully healthy since the end of last season. His presence is seen as vital for building chemistry with whoever takes over under center following Derek Carr’s retirement.
Availability remains a key issue—not just for the Saints, but for Olave’s overall NFL stock. Through three years, he’s totaled 2,565 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns.
While he’s proven himself as a reliable route runner with great hands and downfield ability, his injuries make any extension talks complicated.
In 2025, New Orleans will need its top receiver on the field. While his concussions have come from routine in-game collisions, Olave must stay healthy if the Saints are to find any offensive rhythm.
With rookie Tyler Shough expected to start at quarterback, the Saints are projected to win just two games in 2025, according to PFSN forecasts. Even with a fully healthy Olave, expectations are low.
Still, with his next contract likely riding on his ability to produce over a full season, this could be the year the Saints’ best receiver since Michael Thomas finally puts it all together.
