Chris Olave
Summary
Chris Olave was selected in the 1st Round (#11th Overall) in the 2022 Draft out of Ohio State University. Olave is a polished receiver with strong foundational traits, whose long‑term breakout will depend on scheme fit, health, and continued physical maturation. He combines fluid route‑running, dependable hands, and deep‑threat speed, making him a candidate for a high‑ceiling WR1 in the right scheme. At the same time, his lighter frame and modest physicality leave some questions about his performance in press coverage and contested situations.
Strengths
Excellent route‑running: Olave displays polished footwork, sharp breaks, and the ability to win at multiple levels of the field. Bleacher Report
Deep‑threat speed: He has shown the ability to separate and stretch the field vertically, creating big‑play opportunity.
Reliable hands and ball‑tracking: His ability to extend for the ball and make athletic catches shows up consistently on film. NFL Draft Buzz
Versatility: Comfortable lining up both outside and in the slot; this flexibility helps him in varied offensive schemes.
Football intelligence and feel: He shows strong spatial awareness, recognition of zones, and good timing in his routes. Bleacher Report
Weaknesses
Frame and physicality: At roughly 6’1″ and under 190 lbs during college, Olave lacks prototypical size and strength to dominate in press coverage or overpower bigger defensive backs. NFL Draft Buzz
Blocking and physical run support: He is not as effective in the run‑game blocker role or when asked to engage in physical contact at the line. Bleacher Report
Yards after catch (YAC) ceiling: While effective after the catch, he isn’t viewed as an elite yards‑after‑contact maker or a player who consistently breaks tackles.
Press coverage concerns: Because of his size and frame, he may struggle more frequently when defensive backs disrupt him at the line or jam him early.
Concussion history: Olave has already suffered from multiple concussions in his pro career and must be closely monitored in this department regarding his future personal health.
Fit & Outlook
Chris Olave is an excellent fit in an offense that values route‑precision, separation ability, and vertical threat capability. In a system that uses multiple wide‑receiver sets, incorporates motion and creative alignments, and leverages play‑action or deep‑shots, Olave can thrive. With the Saints, he offers immediate impact as a boundary threat and as a reliable complement to other perimeter receivers. Looking ahead, his outlook is quite promising. If he continues to refine his physical strength, as well as his ability to operate effectively against press coverage, his ceiling is that of a true WR1—capable of 1,000+ yards receiving and double‑digit touchdowns in an offense that feeds him. On the other hand, if physical limitations hinder his ability to separate consistently in tighter coverage or if his YAC production remains modest, he may settle as a high‑end WR2 or complementary piece rather than a dominant WR1.