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Navigating injuries late in the fantasy season is never easy. How should you plan for the return of key players while keeping your lineup competitive?
This week, let's focus on Chris Olave, the New Orleans Saints top wide receiver, whose absence has left a major void for fantasy managers.
When will he return, and what can you expect when he's back? Let's break down his injury timeline and what it means for your fantasy playoffs.
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Chris Olave Injury Update
Olave suffered a concussion during the first quarter of Week 9 when attempting to corral a pass from Derek Carr. The injury was severe enough to require him to be stretchered off the field and taken to the hospital for evaluation. Later diagnosed with a concussion, the receiver was placed in the league's concussion protocol.
Because this is Olave's second concussion of the season, the Saints have been extra cautious with his recovery. He was moved to injured reserve on November 10, making Week 15 the first game he is eligible to return.
A very zoomed in look of Chris Olave on the field during pregame warmups. He was also looking on at practice this week. #Saints pic.twitter.com/4LyJ5g625l
— Jeff Nowak (@Jeff_Nowak) December 1, 2024
Interim head coach Darren Rizzi emphasized the team's priority is Olave's health, saying, "With that kind of injury, you just want to make sure you're doing the right thing by the person."
Though the 24-year-old has been present at practices, he has yet to clear concussion protocol or participate fully. With four concussions in his football career, his availability remains uncertain, and the Saints' slim playoff hopes may influence their decision to bring him back this season.
Chris Olave Fantasy Football Outlook
If Olave is cleared to return in Week 15, he will immediately reclaim his role as the Saints' top receiving option. Injuries to Rashid Shaheed, Bub Means, Cedrick Wilson Jr., and Taysom Hill have left the team scrambling for playmakers. If the Ohio State product returns, expect him to see significant volume in the passing game.
Week after week Saints WR Chris Olave takes huge hits. Here’s this week’s big hit: pic.twitter.com/15VK8KWv0O
— Arye Pulli (@AryePulli) October 27, 2024
Managers should monitor his status closely and temper expectations for his workload upon returning. If Olave is on your injured reserve, keep him stashed. If you need to drop the wideout, explore waiver wire options that provide immediate help, as his return date is still uncertain.
Olave's talent makes him a beneficial asset for the fantasy playoffs, but his health is the priority. Stay flexible and consider backup options in case his absence extends beyond Week 15.
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