Chris Olave's 2024 season is headed for a lengthy pause.
The New Orleans Saints wide receiver is expected to be placed on injured reserve and will miss at least the next four games, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Saturday, per a source. The team has since announced the news.
Olave, who had already been ruled out for Week 10, has suffered two concussions this season, the first coming in a Week 6 defeat against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the second occurring in last week's loss to the Carolina Panthers. Olave has since decided to consult with specialists to determine the best course for his future, Saints interim coach Darren Rizzi told reporters this week.
Rapoport adds that given the nature of Olave's concussion history, the team's record and the fact that he's been seeing specialists, there's a real chance he's played his last down in 2024.
A 2022 first-round pick out of Ohio State, Olave has recorded two 1,000-yard seasons in his first two campaigns, but because of his concussion history, he's yet to play a full season. His latest was the fourth confirmed concussion in his career, and 2024 marks the first time he's suffered two in one campaign.
Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa landed on injured reserve after suffering a concussion earlier this season, missing four games over five weeks before returning in Week 8. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel took the same approach as Rizzi on the matter, focusing his concerns on Tagovailoa's health, not his availability.
Like Olave, Tagovailoa took into consideration his own concussion history before returning, but has also declined to wear a Guardian cap during games.
Olave's exit marks another loss at receiver for the Saints, who have also seen Rashid Shaheed exit due to injury. Ced Wilson, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and rookies Mason Tipton and Jermaine Jackson fill out their top four spots at the position.
New Orleans hosts NFC North rival Atlanta on Sunday.
