The Saints need their receivers to step up with the uncertainty surrounding the quarterback. Luckily for them, they have a young group with high potential, especially with Chris Olave. Olave taking the next step to become a superstar is the best case scenario. He undoubtedly has the talent, he just needs to stay on the field.
Olave was a top prospect in the 2022 draft, despite never reaching 1,000 receiving yards in a season. His elite speed and precise route running made him an attractive target. The Saints fell in love and traded up to pick No. 11 to select him. Ever since, he has been a premier option in the Saints offense.
Olave immediately made an impact in the NFL, achieving back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons in his first two years. He established himself as the top target for the Saints offense. However, injury concerns were already creeping up with two concussions in his first two years.
Chris Olave taking that next step has a trickle down effect to Saints WR and QB
The Saints offense needs someone they can rely on, that player should to be Chris Olave. Olave needs to be a reliable and dynamic target for whoever the starting quarterback is. Either Tyler Shough or Spencer Rattler will be the starter next year; Shough is a rookie and Rattler only has six career starts. Their inexperience creates a need for a receiver they can consistently go to while under duress, Olave can establish himself as that player.
Olave breaking out would allow the entire offense to open up. Olave drawing double coverage or extra focus will allow Rashid Shaheed and Brandin Cooks open looks down field. With their speed, it just takes one hesitation from the defender for them to be gone.
Olave's previous best season was in 2023 where he totaled 138 catches for 1,123 yards and five touchdowns. The stats someone needs to breakout isn't defined, but surmounting his career-best would be a tell-tale sign. What matters most is his impact on the field.
Olave needs to stay healthy
Olave’s season was cut short after taking a massive hit from Panthers safety Xavier Woods. This was his second concussion of the season, making it four on his career. He spent the rest of the season recovering on injured reserve. He is now fully healthy in 2025.
The Saints saw what happened to an offense without a defined number one receiver in 2024. Juwan Johnson led the team in receiving with just 548 receiving yards. This caused Derek Carr and Spencer Rattler to struggle as they didn’t have a guy they could completely trust. It is crucial that Olave establishes himself in that role immediately when the season starts.
Olave staying healthy and establishing himself as a superstar is exactly what the Saints need. The talent hasn't been in question but staying on the field will be paramount.