Chris Olave finally gave New Orleans Saints fans what they’ve been asking for. In the season debut, he wore a Guardian Cap, and it’s here to stay. He made that crystal clear on Instagram.
Olave has stood against wearing a Guardian Cap in live action in the past, though he's worn it in practice. After the game, Olave detailed the reasons bigger than football that made him make a change. Aesthetics are out the window now, and like Olave said, "it did me good today."
"I know all the head injuries I've had in my career, so it was just a decision I had made. I got kids now. I want to be able to live the long game. It's not all about football. I want to live a regular life after I'm done with football. I love my kids to death, so I don't really care how it looks no more. Just gotta throw it on."
The Saints gave Chris Olave millions of reasons to wear the Guardian Cap
Olave’s history with concussions has been handled and discussed with more severity this offseason than it has in the past. He has downplayed his concussion history before by pointing to the fact that prior to the 2024 season, he hasn’t missed much time. It’s a true statement, but it made it seem like the time missed was more important than long term impact of the injuries.
Fans never bought that propaganda, and Olave's injury history remained a large topic of discussion. Truthfully, the Saints receiver was likely viewing the glass half full or simply wanting to move on from a topic that was largely out of his control. Concussions were certainly a known issue, but it didn't feel like something Olave or the team presented as an issue publicly.
This offseason has felt like reversal on that stance. The team made it clear just how serious they're taking the issue in Olave's contract, and he made it clear he's taking it serious with his change in gameday attire. It wouldn't be shocking if the former was a catalyst for the latter.
There are plenty of real world reasons for Olave to wear a Guardian Cap, and he outlined those reasons. What he didn't mention is the financial implications that could motivate a player to add an extra layer of protection. Olave was just paid lucratively, but there's a clause in his contract that voids future guaranteed money if he has to retire due to a concussion.
That was the team's way of stressing they understand Olave's history, the potential impact of a future concussion and the need to protect themselves. Olave has fought the Guardian cap but changed his mind in the same offseason as he signed the contract. Everyone understands the future impact and have stopped treating it as an unspoken issue.
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