As the 2025 NFL season approaches, Chris Olave, the New Orleans Saints’ star wide receiver, is a focal point of intrigue following a challenging 2024 marred by concussions. The Saints’ decision to pick up his fifth-year option signals confidence, but trade rumors and health concerns linger.
This article explores Chris Olave’s recovery, potential role in a revitalized Saints offense, and what fans can expect, offering a detailed profile of a young talent at a crossroads.
Background: Chris Olave’s Rise and Setbacks
Drafted 11th overall by the Saints in 2022 from Ohio State, Chris Olave quickly established himself as a premier receiver. His rookie season yielded 72 receptions for 1,042 yards, earning PFWA All-Rookie honors. In 2023, Chris Olave improved, hauling in 87 catches for 1,123 yards and five touchdowns, per ESPN.
His 2024 season, however, was derailed by two concussions—one in Week 6 against Tampa Bay and another in Week 9 at Carolina, forcing him to miss nine games. The Saints placed him on injured reserve, and he never returned, finishing with 32 catches for 400 yards and one touchdown. Chris Olave’s concussion history, with at least five since 2020, raised concerns about his NFL future, prompting specialist consultations.
Recovery and 2025 Outlook
In January 2025, Chris Olave told Yahoo Sports he felt “regular” after his season-ending concussion, a positive sign for his recovery. The Saints, under new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, are optimistic. Moore, who led high-powered offenses with the Cowboys and Chargers, emphasized a plan to keep Chris Olave healthy, dismissing trade speculation, per SI.com.
On April 23, GM Mickey Loomis confirmed the team exercised Olave’s fifth-year option, securing him through 2026, a move celebrated on X as a commitment to their “No. 1 receiver.” ESPN’s Mike Clay projects a bounce-back 2025, forecasting 80 catches, 1,050 yards, and six touchdowns, aligning with Olave’s 2023 output under Moore’s pass-heavy scheme.
Despite optimism, Chris Olave’s health remains a concern. His Week 9 concussion, caused by a high hit from Carolina’s Xavier Woods (fined $16,683), was particularly alarming, requiring hospitalization. Interim coach Darren Rizzi prioritized Olave’s long-term well-being, noting he’s consulting specialists to assess risks, per ESPN. Olave’s return to practice in December 2024, though he wasn’t activated, showed progress, with coach Rizzi praising his “great spirits.”
Trade Rumors and Team Fit
In April 2025, SI.com speculated that the Chiefs and Ravens might try to acquire Chris Olave to strengthen their receiving corps. While the Ravens want to pair Olave with Zay Flowers, the Chiefs see him as a proven deep threat who can complement Xavier Worthy.
However, ESPN reports that Moore’s remarks and the five-year option indicate the Saints’ intention to develop around Olave, particularly given quarterback Derek Carr’s shoulder ailment that is affecting the offense. Olave’s worth while healthy is highlighted by his 92.1 PFF grade over three weeks in 2024, which ranked first among receivers.
What to Expect in 2025
Under Moore, the Saints’ offense could mirror the 2023 Chargers or 2022 Cowboys, where top receivers like Keenan Allen and CeeDee Lamb thrived, per SI.com. Olave’s speed (4.39 40-yard dash) and route-running make him a fit for Moore’s scheme, which emphasizes yards after catch. Olave averaged 3.34 yards per route run in 2024’s early weeks.
With Rashid Shaheed and rookie Bub Means competing for targets, Olave remains the clear WR1, potentially seeing 130+ targets if healthy. His ability to avoid injury, especially in high-risk crossing routes, will be critical after 2024’s “hospital ball” criticism of Carr, per The Washington Post.
Why Chris Olave Matters
Chris Olave’s 2025 season is pivotal for the Saints and his career. A healthy return could solidify him as an elite receiver, fueling a playoff push. For fans, his comeback story—overcoming concussions and trade rumors—offers hope and excitement, making him a player to watch.
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