What is the New Orleans Saints’ biggest offensive X-Factor? While there are many possible answers, one stands alone: Chris Olave’s health. The veteran receiver staying available and establishing himself as Tyler Shough’s primary target is the key to unlocking Kellen Moore’s offense.
Olave has been outstanding when he’s healthy. The 26-year-old has had three 1,000-yard receiving seasons and is coming off a career-high 1,163 yards and nine touchdowns. His chemistry with Shough was palpable towards the end of the year, and their connection was a pivotal reason they won four straight games.
However, Olave’s kryptonite has always been his inability to remain injury-free. He’s missed 13 total games in his four-year career and has suffered at least four concussions. Additionally, he missed the Saints’ Week 18 matchup last season because of blood clots. These issues have plagued Olave in the past, but he put together a near-complete 16-game season last year and is trending in the right direction.
Chris Olave will open up the Saints’ offense if he’s available.
On the surface, Olave’s role seems one-dimensional, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The veteran’s greatest strength is his ability to stretch a defense and threaten it deep. He requires additional safety help, as the speedster can consistently burn a cornerback. This creates extra space for short/intermediate routes and makes Shough’s job of reading the field easier.
This alone is great, but it isn’t the only advantage Olave brings. The aforementioned ability will also open up additional lanes for the run game, as the run game will open up things for Olave downfield. It creates a pick your poison situation for defenses.
An opposing defensive coordinator wants as many players near the line of scrimmage against an efficient rushing attack, which the Saints should have. As a result, they bring a safety down. However, they can’t do this against Olave. He will consistently pull the one deep defender and create a massive gain, whether it’s for himself or another teammate.
Chris Olave will be one of the most important players for the Saints in 2026. His ability to stay healthy and available will be a defining characteristic of their season. His ability to open up opportunities, both passing and rushing, is invaluable and will make Tyler Shough’s and Kellen Moore’s jobs far simpler. In the end, it could be the difference between making and missing the playoffs.
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