NFL
Why isn’t Chris Olave playing for the Saints against the Buccaneers? NFL injury update
The New Orleans wide receiver has had a rocky 2024 season with injuries and the last regular season game in Week 18 is another example.
Chris Olave, one of the New Orleans Saints’ brightest offensive players, has been in the spotlight for reasons other than his impressive stats this season. After suffering his second concussion of the 2024 campaign in Week 9 against the Carolina Panthers, Olave remains on injured reserve. Fans were hoping to see him suit up for the Saints’ critical Week 15 matchup against the Washington Commanders, but caution was taken and it appears that will continue to be the case in Week 18.
The wide receiver’s journey back to the field has been anything but straightforward. Following the November 3 game in which he was stretchered off after a head collision, Olave’s health has been under close scrutiny.
Interim head coach Darren Rizzi recently provided updates, albeit ones that keep the picture murky. “I wouldn’t close the door on [his return this season],” Rizzi said. “He’s starting to get some rehab stuff, he’s starting to move around. So we’ll see.”
Is Chris Olave ready to return from injured reserve?
Technically, Olave is indeed eligible to come off injured reserve this week. Concussions are not new territory for Olave – he’s had at least five recorded instances since 2020, and as stated above two of them came this season. Given his position as at WR, where collisions are part of the job description, the team is understandably treading carefully.
Olave was spotted working with the offense prior to Week 18, but he has been ruled out for the last game of the regular season.
The stakes for the Saints and Olave
The Saints have been eliminated from the playoff race, so Olave’s return is not essential for the team. As the 11th overall pick in the 2022 draft, Olave has proven himself indispensable, racking up 191 receptions, 2,565 yards, and 10 touchdowns across 39 career games.
From what we’ve heard, Olave will not be taking to the field against the Bucanneers and will have the off season to get back in shape and ready for 2025.
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