Chris Olave aims to reclaim WR1 role for Saints in 2025

By Ross Jackson

After the signing of veteran wide receiver Brandin Cooks, the New Orleans Saints have stocked up on speed in the position room. Cooks brings veteran leadership to a room that has otherwise been notably young for the past few years. One of the team’s young stars is at the same position in wide receiver Chris Olave.

Olave’s 2024 was cut short after a series of scary head injuries and concussions effectively shut him down for the season. Heading into his fourth year, he now has a chance to return to the field and return to form as the team’s top wide receiver option.

New Orleans should look to continue to invest at the position. As we’ve pointed out recently, the addition of a big-bodied and physical wideout could go a long way for the offense.

But even with that potential addition to the team, Olave would still have a chance in 2025 to reclaim his role as the No. 1 option in the passing game with a strong return.

The young wide receiver doesn’t lack talent and there’s no concern about his availability to produce. From his blazing speed to his ability to make impressive acrobatic catches, Olave has everything necessary to be a star on the field. Off the field, he’s a quiet but cerebral preparer with the demeanor of a self-assured playmaker.

Everyone loves Chris Olave touchdown highlights🙌#Saints pic.twitter.com/rmOtGCweKW

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) March 5, 2024

Through his first two seasons, the Ohio State Buckeye was already in rarified air. After piling up 1,042 receiving yards his rookie year in 2022 and 1,123 in 2023, he became just the third Saints wide receiver in franchise history to top 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first two seasons. He joined Michael Thomas (2016-17) and Marques Colston (2006-07) in earning the honor.

His 2024 season was cut short, totalling just 400 receiving yards in his eight appearances. The pass-catcher will be tasked with staying healthy, but will not lack for opportunities in new head coach Kellen Moore’s offense. 

Some believe that the acquisition of Cooks may preempt a trade for the young receiver on the final year of his rookie deal, the Saints have been clear that they intended this offseason to add around Olave, not replace him. This opens the door for a big return to the field for the wideout in 2025.

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