NFL
Will Chris Olave play for the Saints against the Commanders? NFL injury update
The initial assessment for the New Orleans wide receiver was to return in Week 15, but injuries often throw up uncertainties.
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 has missed four straight games and 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 may be prudent.
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. However, the Saints opted not to open his 21-day practice window, indicating caution in handling his recovery. 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 has recently attended practices as an observer and even traveled with the team during their Week 14 victory over the New York Giants. According to Rizzi, the 24-year-old has rejoined meetings and started light rehab work. But is this progress enough to see him take the field against the Commanders?
The stakes for the Saints and Olave
The Saints are in the thick of a playoff race, making Olave’s potential return a tantalizing prospect. 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 Washington, but he is clearly making strides in his recovery and remains on the team’s radar for a potential late-season return. For now, Saints fans will need to be patient.
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