Chris Olave suffered a brutal hit during their Week 9 game against the Carolina Panthers. On first-and-ten with seven minutes left in the first quarter, Derek Carr threw a pass that sailed above Olave. The former Ohio State standout jumped to try and reach the ball, leaving him vulnerable.
Panthers safety Xavier Woods hit Olave’s head, forcing the wideout to lay down on the field after his head bounced on the turf. Olave needed assistance leaving the field, a scene that led Saints fans to hold their breath.
However, after the scare, Olave tweeted that he was doing well and appreciated the prayers. Unfortunately, he has had an extensive concussion history since 2020, when he was still playing for the Buckeyes. Olave also underwent a concussion protocol in 2022 and 2023.
Thank God Preciate all the love & prayers Ima be aight
— Chris Olave (@chrisolave_) November 3, 2024
This year, he dealt with a concussion during their October game against the Buccaneers. He was also evaluated for a concussion during their Oct. 27 game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Meanwhile, the hit he suffered in the Panthers game had him taken to a hospital in Charlotte.
Olave finished the game with one catch for 13 yards. Sadly, the Saints lost by one point to the Panthers, extending their losing streak to seven games. It’s an unfortunate ending, considering they’ve won their first two matches.
The savage hit from Woods should have Olave out for a while. His absence could add more misery to an already disappointing season that saw former head coach Dennis Allen get fired.
-Lance Fernandez