Saints interim coach Darren Rizzi said Friday that placing Olave on injured reserve “hasn’t been officially determined yet, but it’s obviously on the table.”
Olave suffered a concussion Sunday against the Carolina Panthers and left the stadium on a backboard to be transported to a hospital in Charlotte. Olave was released in time to fly home with the team that day.
Olave’s second concussion occurred three weeks after his first of the season, which occurred in Week 6 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Olave missed the next game against the Denver Broncos but returned to play against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 8.
Olave, who switched to a safer helmet model but opted not to wear a Guardian cap in games, also took a hit to the head area against the Chargers and was evaluated for a concussion before returning.
He has now had four confirmed concussions in his NFL career, including concussions in 2022 and 2023. Rizzi said Wednesday that Olave and his family planned to take the healing process slowly and explore all of their options.
“We’re trying to determine what’s best now for the long term,” Rizzi said. “There’s a process he’s going through. He met with our people and then there are people outside the building…Chris will be out right now for the short term, and then we’ll make a long-term decision.” term, but he is meeting with several people and with everyone here, our medical staff has been in contact with all of them.
Olave was one of four Saints players ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons, along with starting offensive lineman Lucas Patrick, starting cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry and wide receiver Cedrick Wilson Jr. Rizzi also said the running back Jamaal Williams, who sprained his groin. injury this week, he will not play despite being listed as questionable.
Center Erik McCoy, who has been out since Week 4 following groin surgery, returned to practice but is doubtful to play. The Saints will return linebacker Nephi Sewell, who has not played this season after tearing his ACL last year, and safety Will Harris, who has not played since Week 6 due to a hamstring injury.
