Chris Olave Graded Among NFL's Best Against Zone Coverage

Howard had Olave ranked behind only Tyreek Hill (Dolphins), Justin Jefferson (Vikings), Davante Adams (Raiders), Cooper Kupp (Rams), London (Falcons), Terry McLaurin (Washington), Deebo Samuel (49ers), Stefon Diggs (Bills), and Amon-Ra St. Brown (Lions) for their performance against zone coverage in 2022.

Thrust into an even more prominent role after injuries to wideouts Michael Thomas, Jarvis Landry, and Deonte Harty, Olave thrived in his first season. He led the Saints with 72 receptions for 1,042 yards and caught four touchdowns. Olave became just the third player in franchise history to have over 1,000 receiving yards as a rookie, joining only Thomas and Marques Colston. 

Despite the team’s lack of receiving weapons and inconsistent quarterback play, Olave remained consistently productive. He caught at least four balls in 12 of his 15 contests and had over 60 yards in nine games, including three 100-yard outings. 

Olave was targeted a team-high 119 times, significantly more than RB Alvin Kamara (77) or TE Juwan Johnson (65), who were second and third on the team. Jarvis Landry, who had just 39 targets, was the team’s next highest targeted wideout. 

A dangerous runner in the open field, Olave can make defenses regret softer coverage. His speed and route precision made him a handful for opponents whether in man or zone coverages. Of Olave’s 72 catches, 52 of them resulted in a first down or touchdown. 

Playing at 6-feet and 187-Lbs. as a rookie, many were concerned that Olave would wear down against the pounding of NFL defenses. He proved the contrary, as he was extremely effective in traffic and still excelled late in the year.

Chris Olave, just 23, appears to have a bright future ahead. Expect him to be even better in 2023 with a year of pro experience. He looks to become just the sixth player in franchise history to have consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons. Olave also won't be the only threat that New Orleans opponents will have to deal with in 2023.

The Saints expect a return to health from Thomas, and continued development from surprise 2022 rookie Rashid Shaheed. Additionally, the Saints also have two terrific running backs in Kamara and Jamaal Williams and a strong tandem of tight ends with Johnson and Foster Moreau. 

New Orleans ranked 16th in passing production in 2022 after finishing dead last in that category in 2021 and just 19th during 2020. With Olave’s abilities, additional weapons around him, and a vastly better quarterback in Derek Carr, the 2023 Saints could finish among the league's top offenses.