Chris Olave Latest Injury Update: Will The Saints Star Play in Week 14?
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
Heading into Week 14, Chris Olave’s availability is a big talking point for the New Orleans Saints and their fans. The star wide receiver dealt with back spasms this week and initially missed Wednesday’s practice. However, multiple insiders, including one from Nick Underhill, now say Olave will play in week 14, giving a much-needed boost to a Saints offense already thin at wide receiver.
This article breaks down the latest injury update, what we know, and how his status may impact New Orleans’ passing attack in Week 14.
Injury Report – What’s Going On With Chris Olave?
On Wednesday’s initial practice for Week 14, Olave was listed as Did Not Participate (DNP) due to a back issue. The next day, he returned to practice on a limited basis and again logged limited participation on Friday.
he Saints’ Friday injury report from Erin Summers officially labeled him Questionable for the Week 14 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Still, insiders, including Ian Rapoport and Adam Schefter, indicated he is expected to play despite the back spasms.
#Saints WR Chris Olave, limited with back spasms and listed as questionable, is expected to play, source said.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 7, 2025
Why the New Orleans Saints Are Optimistic About His Return
Olave played through the back issue in Week 13 and recorded 4 catches for 47 yards and a touchdown. The back spasms are manageable, although there is some soreness. They are not a structural injury. Team staff describe it as “post-game soreness.” They do not expect it to worsen during the game.
Given his importance to the offense with 73 catches, 781 yards, and five touchdowns through 12 games, the Saints appear motivated to have him active, especially with other key players sidelined.
What It Means for NFL Week 14 vs. Buccaneers
If Olave plays, he’ll remain the focal point of New Orleans’ passing game, essential given the team’s thin WR depth this season. That said, the back issue may limit his snap count or physical usage. Expect perhaps a reduced route tree or fewer contested catches if New Orleans handles him carefully.
Conclusion
While Chris Olave entered Week 14 with some uncertainty due to back spasms and a limited-practice week, all indicators point to him suiting up for the Saints’ game against the Buccaneers. Though he may not be at 100%, the team’s optimism and his track record suggest he’ll remain a key piece of New Orleans’ offense.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is Chris Olave playing in Week 14?
Yes. Despite his back injury and questionable status, league insiders and the team expect Olave to play against the Buccaneers.
Q2: What injury is he dealing with?
He is managing back spasms that caused him to miss early practice this week, though the team characterizes it as soreness rather than a serious structural issue.
Q3: Did he play last week despite his injury?
Yes. In the Week 13 game, Olave logged 4 catches for 47 yards and a touchdown while managing the back issue.
Q4: Could the Saints limit his play to protect him?
Possibly. Given the back soreness, the coaching staff may reduce his snaps or limit his involvement in contested routes to avoid further aggravation.
Q5: What does this mean for fantasy football lineups?
If active, Olave remains start-worthy — but plan for a possibly limited output. If you have alternate options, consider flexing another WR or tight end, depending on the matchup and Olave’s snap count after kickoff.
