Olave Grounded: A Scary Pause on a Breakout Season
January 2, 2026
New Orleans star wide receiver Chris Olave was hospitalized after a blood clot was discovered in his lung. Fortunately, the blood clot was caught early and he was expected to be released from the hospital on Thursday. However, with the expected time to return set somewhere around a month, this will end his 2025 season.
The news is particularly tough due to Olave’s long history of injuries that have kept him on the sidelines over the last few seasons. He’s dealt with concussions, hamstrings, ankles, back, and more concussions. He’s finally been able to get back on the field this year and has absolutely shined once again under new coach Kellen Moore. Of course, with the recent breakout of rookie quarterback Tyler Shough, that hasn’t hurt either.
It’s reported that Olave has no prior history of blood clots and should be all clear in short order. His final line in 2025 will officially finish with 100 receptions, 1,163 yards and 9 touchdowns. With his 5th year option set to go into effect in 2026, he should be set up with a nice new contract by the time he takes the field once next Fall.
Keith, Author
Keith runs youth flag football leagues by day, and by night he hosts the podcast and writes articles with the confidence of a man who’s been rushing quarterbacks since dial-up. A longtime flag football DE and lifelong Falcons fan, he’s no stranger to heartbreak and enjoys watching the bears get slaughtered each week. Equal parts coach, critic, and chaos, Keith calls it like he sees it… even if it hurts.
The Goal Line Grind 