Chris Olave, the New Orleans Saints’ star wide receiver, enters the 2025-26 season under close watch after missing significant time in 2024 due to injuries. Olave missed nine games last season and played fewer than 10 snaps in two others after suffering two concussions.
His final concussion, sustained on November 3, caused him to miss the last eight games of the campaign. Though he returned to practice in December, he never appeared in a game to finish the season. How is he looking for the season opener?
Chris Olave’s Injury History and Recent Setbacks
Olave’s concussion history has raised concerns over his long-term health. In just three NFL seasons, he has suffered at least four known concussions, one in 2022, one in 2023, and two last year.
After the most recent concussion, Olave consulted with specialists to assess his condition, signaling both caution and a focus on recovery.
This is exactly what Tom Brady was referencing when he talked about good Quarterbacks not putting their receivers in dangerous situations.
Derek Carr just sent Chris Olave to the hospital.
— Zak (@zakeekinlaw) November 3, 2024
Adding to the concerns, Olave rolled his ankle during a Thursday practice in August 2025. While he finished the workout after having his ankle taped, the Saints held him out the next day as a precaution.
This conservative approach demonstrates the team’s focus on ensuring he is fully healthy before taking the field.
Adjustments in Preseason Usage
Interestingly, the Saints have experimented with Olave’s position in the preseason. Traditionally a downfield threat, Olave was moved into the slot receiver role for all 11 of his preseason snaps, despite only playing around 33% of his career snaps in the slot.
New head coach Kellen Moore may be making this adjustment to reduce Olave’s concussion risk while still leveraging his elite route-running abilities.
Olave’s performance as a rookie and sophomore highlights why the Saints are careful with him. He led the team with 72 receptions, 1,042 yards, and four touchdowns in 2022, then improved in 2023 with 87 catches for 1,123 yards and five touchdowns. He became only the fourth player in team history to have back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in his first two years.
Week 1 Outlook and Contract Implications
The Saints clearly view Olave as a focal point of their offense, as evidenced by his placement at the WR1 spot on the latest depth chart. While his concussion and recent ankle injuries remain concerns, his skill and experience make him indispensable.
Chris Olave got some of the best hands in the league 👀 pic.twitter.com/qWVqEOHV7T
— Football’s Greatest Moments (@FBGreatMoments) August 10, 2025
The team also secured his fifth-year contract option, keeping him through at least 2026. Whether a long-term extension follows will likely depend on Olave’s health and ability to stay on the field.
RELATED: Should I Draft Chris Olave? Fantasy Outlook for the Saints WR in 2025
Fans and analysts will be monitoring Olave closely as the Saints open the season. His role as a top receiver, especially with potential shifts in position usage, will be crucial for New Orleans’ offensive success.
While it remains to be seen if he is 100% healthy, the Saints’ cautious approach suggests they are prioritizing his long-term availability over short-term gains.
Olave enters 2025 as one of New Orleans’ key offensive weapons. His concussion history and recent ankle issue justify continued monitoring, but his elite skill set and proven track record make him a central figure for the Saints’ offense.
Week 1 status may depend on ongoing evaluations, but the expectation is that a fully recovered Olave could once again lead the team in receiving and provide a game-changing presence on the field.
