Chris Olave was inexplicably denied a spot as a finalist for Comeback Player of the Year. Just a few months after one of the toughest seasons of his career, Olave had the best season of his career. Somehow, it was not enough for the New Orleans Saints wide receiver to earn a nomination for an award his season was made for.
In 2024, Olave missed nine games due to suffering multiple concussions. The concussions were so severe, in fact, that the wide receiver was seriously considering retiring. While he did decide to keep his NFL career going, it was far from an easy decision This year, he played 17 games for the first time in two years.
Additionally, Olave set multiple career highs with his 100 receptions, his 1,163 yards, and his nine touchdowns. It was one of the bigger stories on the Saints, and it's really surprising to not see him included as at least a finalist.
In 2025, Saints WR Chris Olave got his swag back
Following the season, Olave told the media that as he got more comfortable throughout it, he could feel his presence. "It was tough at first, but as I got more and more comfortable, I just felt my presence out there." He said at his end-of-year press conference. "I definitely took myself another step. I feel like I've gained a lot more confidence in myself and what I can do, and not just in football, but in life."
Olave's presence was undeniable this season. Along with setting personal record after personal record, Olave was also one of the more reliable targets all season. There was a change at quarterback halfway through the season. Even as the offense transitioned from Spencer Rattler to Tyler Shough Olave remained steady. You could only argue he got better as time, as evidenced by his comments on his comfort levels.
Throughout the entire season, Olave was there for the team and was able to help carry them to victory multiple times this year. Now, he has an entire offseason with his head on his shoulders. If he can keep it up, 2026 is looking to be cinematic.