Saints WR aims for loftier goal after impressive rookie season

Chris Olave is the Saints No. 1 wide receiver after a fantastic rookie season, but he wants more.

"I want to be the best," Olave said Tuesday, per the team's website. "That's always been my mindset. I just want to be the best. I try to do that every day, stay consistent with my work and do everything I can to be at my best. That's my goal." 

Olave becoming the best wide receiver in the NFL is a lofty goal but not an impossible one after he flashed star potential during his rookie season. In 15 games, he tied for the second-most receptions (72) and was second in receiving yards (1,042) among rookie wideouts. He also made the 2022 PWFA All-Rookie team.

Despite the strong debut, Olave isn't satisfied and wants to strengthen his skillset to make a quantum leap in his second season.

"[I've] just been working on some of my weaknesses, trying to be stronger at the catch, just being stronger after contact," Olave said. "I'm just trying to come down with every target thrown my way. I feel like last year. I kind of struggled with that, and I just want to keep getting better every year."

Expect New Orleans to rely on Olave as its top target again in 2023. Although former Offensive Player of the Year WR Michael Thomas should be ready for training camp, his health is a question mark after missing 39 games over the past three seasons.

Plus, Olave gives new Saints quarterback Derek Carr a target he can depend on, helping him flourish in New Orleans.

Olave, 22, might supercharge an offense that finished 22nd in scoring last season and continue to emerge as one of the best young wideouts in the NFL.