Saints WR Chris Olave taken to hospital after suffering concussion

Olave was the target of an incomplete pass over the middle, and he took a hard hit from safety Xavier Woods. Olave was ultimately placed on a backboard and carted off the field before quickly being ruled out with another concussion. The 24-year-old has since been taken to a local hospital, and the CBS broadcast notes he is alert with strong vital signs, via team reporter Erin Summers.

The 2022 No. 11 pick suffered a concussion during his rookie season. In Week 6 of the current campaign, Olave suffered another concussion and was held out of the lineup for the following contest. Now, his time out of the lineup for brain injuries will continue with a Week 10 absence also being likely.

Olave had a strong showing in his debut season, topping 1,000 yards and averaging 14.5 yards per reception. Last season, the Ohio State product took a step forward with 87 catches for 1,123 yards and five touchdowns. That led to high expectations entering 2024, and Olave has served as New Orleans’ top receiver when healthy. His availability will be key moving forward since Rashid Shaheed is out for the year, an injury which prompted the recent signing of Marquez Valdes-Scantling.

Upon returning from his first 2024 concussion, Olave said he gave thought to wearing a Guardian Cap, which he ultimately did not. It will be interesting to see if that approach changes once he is back on the field.