NEW ORLEANS — New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave will miss the team’s season finale against the Atlanta Falcons after developing a blood clot in one of his lungs, a source confirmed to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Olave, who was listed on the injury report with an illness after missing Wednesday’s practice, has no prior history of blood clots and is expected to make a full recovery within a month. He is anticipated to participate in the Saints’ offseason program beginning in April.
On Thursday, Olave shared a photo from the hospital on Instagram, writing: “Thank you God for everything! Right where I need to be… Chin up, chest out & keep it pushin. I don’t want ya sympathy, just talk to God for me. Bounce back otw!”
Saints head coach Kellen Moore confirmed Olave is receiving top medical care: “Chris had an illness come up … he’s navigating that with our medical staff. Our staff got ahead of this, and he’s in great care.”
Olave, 25, has had a standout fourth season, recording a career-high 1,163 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. The 2022 first-round pick is set to enter his fifth-year option unless he and the Saints finalize a contract extension before the 2026 season.
Offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier emphasized the priority on Olave’s health: “The game of football is important, but the game of life is more important. His health comes first. He’s in great care, and our thoughts and prayers are with him.”
Olave has also been managing a recurring back injury this season but was able to play in Week 17 against the Tennessee Titans after receiving targeted treatment. Prior to this setback, he aimed to play all 17 games in 2025, marking the first time in his NFL career achieving that goal.
Reflecting on last season, Olave revealed he once considered retirement due to concussion concerns at just 24 years old. “It was a tough time last year… I just gave it another try, another chance. And it’s been a great year,” he said.
New Orleans Football first reported Olave’s absence for the finale.
