Chris Olave

American wide receiver who starred at Ohio State before being drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2022, earning Pro Bowl honors as a rookie.

Born in San Marcos, California, Christopher Olave Jr. developed his football skills at Mission Hills High School, where he emerged as a standout wide receiver. His exceptional athletic ability and precise route-running technique earned him recognition as one of the top prospects in California, ultimately leading to his recruitment by Ohio State University. At Ohio State from 2019 to 2021, Olave established himself as one of college football's premier receivers. He formed a dynamic partnership with quarterback Justin Fields, helping the Buckeyes reach the College Football Playoff National Championship game in 2020. Throughout his collegiate career, Olave demonstrated remarkable consistency and big-game performance, recording multiple seasons with over 50 receptions and 800 receiving yards. His junior season in 2021 proved particularly impressive, as he led the team in receiving yards while showcasing the refined technique that would make him a first-round NFL prospect. The New Orleans Saints selected Olave with the 11th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, making him the second wide receiver chosen that year. His professional debut exceeded expectations, as he immediately became the Saints' primary receiving threat. Olave achieved over 1,000 receiving yards in both his rookie and sophomore seasons, joining an exclusive group of receivers to accomplish this feat in their first two NFL campaigns. His exceptional ball-tracking ability and precise route-running have made him a reliable target in the Saints' passing offense. Olave represents the modern NFL wide receiver archetype: technically sound, mentally sharp, and capable of producing at an elite level from the outset of his professional career. His early success has positioned him among the league's rising stars at the position, while his consistent production has helped stabilize the Saints' offensive identity during a period of quarterback transition. His combination of college pedigree and immediate NFL impact exemplifies the value of technical proficiency in contemporary professional football.

Precise route runner with excellent hands and ability to make contested catches

• Pro Bowl 2x
• New Orleans Saints WR records
• Biletnikoff Award Finalist
• First-team All-Big Ten
• Pro Bowl (2022, 2023)
• Biletnikoff Award Finalist (2021)
• First-team All-Big Ten (2021)
• Saints rookie receiving yards record
• Saints rookie receptions record