As the 11th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Chris Olave has more than justified the New Orleans Saints’ faith in him. In his first two seasons, Olave has consistently impressed, surpassing the 1,000-yard receiving mark each year. But as he heads into his third season, the Ohio State product is aiming higher, determined to transform from a “good player” into an “elite player.”
“Really everywhere,” Olave remarked on Wednesday’s episode of The Insiders, which airs on NFL Network and NFL+ at 7 p.m. ET. “Just going into this offseason knowing that [the Saints] believe in me as the Receiver 1, I’m excited to get to work. But I’m just trying to take that next step forward and try to go from a good player to an elite player.”
Olave’s journey to stardom began with his electrifying college career at Ohio State, where he was known for his precise route-running and reliable hands. The Saints saw his potential and made him their first-round pick in 2022, hoping he could bring a new dimension to their offense. Olave did not disappoint, becoming a critical piece of the Saints’ offensive puzzle.
In his rookie season, Olave amassed 1,042 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns, a performance that set the tone for his career. He followed that up with 1,137 yards and 7 touchdowns in his sophomore campaign, solidifying his role as one of the league’s promising young receivers.
Now, with veteran receiver Michael Thomas facing uncertainty and the Saints in need of a reliable go-to target, Olave is poised to embrace the role of the team’s top wideout. The responsibility is significant, but Olave seems more than ready for the challenge.
Saints WR Chris Olave tells @judybattista + @OmarDRuiz on tonight’s “Insiders” that he’s looking to make move “from a good player to an elite player”https://t.co/n4Il9YAwhP pic.twitter.com/MaL1Cva8Rk
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) June 5, 2024
“I’ve learned so much these past two years,” Olave said. “Every game, every practice, I’ve taken something away to help me improve. Now it’s about putting it all together and taking that leap.”
This offseason, Olave has been laser-focused on refining every aspect of his game. From enhancing his speed and agility to studying film of the NFL’s elite receivers, he is leaving no stone unturned.
“I’m working on everything,” Olave explained. “Route-running, speed, strength—every little detail that can give me an edge. Watching guys like Davante Adams and Stefon Diggs, seeing what makes them special, and trying to incorporate some of that into my own game.”
With Derek Carr now under center for the Saints, Olave’s quest for elite status comes at a time when the team’s offense is undergoing a significant transformation. Carr, a seasoned quarterback with a strong arm and a knack for precision passing, could be the perfect partner to help Olave elevate his game.
“Having Derek as our quarterback is huge,” Olave said. “His experience and leadership are going to be big for us. I’m excited to build that chemistry with him and make some big plays this season.”
Caleb’s Top 100 NFL Players of 2024
#85: Chris Olave (WR, Saints)
2023: NR pic.twitter.com/Qt08JJlZnf
— Caleb (@OKCowboysBraves) June 5, 2024
For Olave, becoming elite isn’t just about statistics—it’s about consistency, leadership, and impact. It’s about making the clutch catches, turning routine plays into spectacular ones, and being the player the team turns to in critical moments.
“Being elite means being the best you can be, day in and day out,” Olave stated. “It’s about earning that respect from your teammates and opponents. I know I have what it takes, and I’m ready to prove it.”
As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Chris Olave. Can he make the leap from a promising young receiver to one of the NFL’s elite? If his work ethic and determination are any indicators, Saints fans have every reason to be excited about what’s to come.
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