Chris Olave Return Timeline Injury Update: Will the Saints WR Play in Week 14?

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave is questionable for the Week 14 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on December 7 in Tampa, Florida. He has been limited in practice due to back spasms, raising concerns about his availability. The Saints enter the game at 2–10 and are still waiting for key playmakers to return.

Team reporter Erin Summers confirmed on December 5 that Olave remains questionable. The Saints have already ruled out Alvin Kamara, Tali Fuaga, and Justin Reid, placing even more pressure on the receiving corps.

Latest Details on Chris Olave’s Return Timeline

Chris Olave’s injury update has become a central storyline for New Orleans this week. The fourth-year receiver has been dealing with back spasms that limited him throughout practice. Back injuries often fluctuate day to day, making his status difficult to predict until pre-game evaluations.

Olave has been a major part of the Saints’ offense this season with 78 receptions for 781 yards and five touchdowns. He continues to be the most reliable target for quarterback Tyler Shough, who has leaned heavily on him during a difficult season for the team.

According to the reporter update shared Friday, Olave has not yet been cleared and his final status will depend on how he responds to treatment before kickoff. The Saints are preparing contingency plans, including giving Kevin Austin Jr. more snaps. Austin is listed as the No. 2 wide receiver and could play a bigger role if Olave is unable to go.

The Saints’ depth chart will also see adjustments with Mason Tipton and Devaughn Vele expected to take on larger responsibilities. Losing multiple offensive starters has tested head coach Kellen Moore in his first season, as he continues working to stabilize a roster that has battled injuries throughout 2025.

The team hopes Olave avoids further setbacks and can return to full participation soon. However, the short-term outlook remains uncertain heading into the division matchup.

How Olave’s Injury Affects the Saints Moving Forward

The Saints’ offense relies heavily on timing, spacing, and rhythm, all of which depend on Olave’s availability. His absence would reduce explosive play potential and limit Shough’s options, especially against a Buccaneers defense that thrives on forcing shorter throws.

New Orleans is focused on ending the season on a competitive note despite its record. A prolonged absence for Olave would shift more developmental reps to younger receivers and reshape how the team studies its offensive needs entering 2026.

As the Saints prepare for Week 14, all eyes remain on Chris Olave’s return timeline. His final status will dictate the offensive game plan and determine whether New Orleans can challenge Tampa Bay on Sunday.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Chris Olave injury update?

Olave is listed as questionable for Week 14 due to back spasms. His status will be evaluated again before kickoff.

Q2: What is Chris Olave’s return timeline?

The team has not given a firm return date. His availability depends on day-to-day response to treatment.

Q3: Who will replace Chris Olave if he cannot play?

Kevin Austin Jr. is expected to step into a larger role, with Mason Tipton and Devaughn Vele also seeing more targets.

Q4: How does Olave’s injury affect the Saints’ offense?

The unit loses its top receiver and deep-threat capability, forcing adjustments to spacing and play design.

Q5: What are Chris Olave’s 2025 season stats?

He has 78 catches for 781 yards and five touchdowns this season.