Quick hit: New Orleans Saints’ Chris Olave Expected to be Placed on IR, ‘Real Chance’ He Could Miss Remainder of the Season After Latest Concussion.

**Breaking News: New Orleans Saints’ Chris Olave Expected to be Placed on IR, ‘Real Chance’ He Could Miss Remainder of the Season After Latest Concussion**

In a significant blow to the New Orleans Saints’ offense, wide receiver Chris Olave is expected to be placed on injured reserve (IR) after sustaining a concussion in the team’s most recent game. Sources close to the team have indicated that there is a “real chance” Olave could miss the remainder of the 2024 season, dealing a major setback to the Saints’ playoff hopes.

### Injury Update

Olave, who has been a key contributor to the Saints’ passing attack this season, left the field during the second half of their Week 10 loss. The 2022 first-round draft pick had been enjoying a breakout year, leading the team in receiving yards and touchdowns. However, following a hard hit late in the game, Olave was evaluated for a concussion and did not return to the contest.

Although concussion protocols and player safety are a top priority for the NFL, the nature of the injury and Olave’s history with head trauma have raised serious concerns. Given the severity of the impact and the team’s cautious approach to concussions, the decision to place him on IR seems imminent.

### Potential Impact on the Saints’ Offense

Olave’s absence would be a devastating blow to the Saints’ offense, which has relied heavily on his dynamic playmaking ability. The wideout had 70 receptions for over 900 yards and 6 touchdowns heading into Week 10, forming a strong rapport with quarterback Derek Carr. Without Olave, the Saints will need to look to other receivers, such as Michael Thomas and Rashid Shaheed, to step up in the passing game.

The Saints, currently sitting in a competitive NFC South division, will need to adjust quickly if they are to remain in playoff contention. The team’s offense has struggled with consistency at times this season, and losing Olave’s explosive talent could force the coaching staff to rethink their game plans as they head into the final stretch of the season.

### What’s Next for Olave?

Given the severity of concussion injuries and the league’s stringent protocols, Olave’s timeline for recovery remains uncertain. While there is optimism that he will recover fully, the fact that he may be sidelined for the remainder of the season has cast doubt on his 2024 campaign.

Olave will need to clear several stages of concussion protocol before being cleared to return to the field. Even if he returns sooner than expected, the Saints are likely to take a cautious approach with his recovery, prioritizing his long-term health.

### A Season of Uncertainty for the Saints

With Olave potentially out for the season, the Saints face a challenging road ahead. They will need to rely on a combination of veteran leadership and young talent to keep their playoff aspirations alive. Coach Dennis Allen and the rest of the Saints’ staff will now turn their attention to filling the void left by Olave’s absence, whether through changes in the depth chart or adjustments to their offensive scheme.

For now, the focus is on Olave’s health and recovery, with the hope that he can return stronger in the future. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the situation develops, as the Saints navigate a season that just became a whole lot more unpredictable.

### Conclusion

Chris Olave’s injury marks a critical turning point for the New Orleans Saints. His expected placement on IR and the looming possibility of missing the rest of the season add another layer of uncertainty to a team already navigating a challenging campaign. As the Saints prepare for life without their star wide receiver, the focus will shift to how they adjust on offense and whether they can keep their playoff hopes alive in a tough NFC South race.