Chris Olave Bio
Christian Josiah Olave is an American professional football wide receiver for the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes, where he holds the school record of most career touchdown receptions at 35. Olave was selected by the Saints in the first round of the 2022 NFL draft.
Early Life and Background
Christian Josiah Olave was born on June 27, 2000, in San Ysidro, California. He is of Cuban descent on his father’s side and African-American on his mother’s side. Olave began his high school football career at Eastlake High School in Chula Vista, California, before transferring to Mission Hills High School in San Marcos, California. Due to California Interscholastic Federation transfer rules, he had to sit out his junior year. During his senior season, he caught 93 passes for 1,764 yards and 26 touchdowns, showcasing his talent as a wide receiver. In addition to football, Olave was also involved in basketball and track during high school. He committed to Ohio State University in January 2018.
Path to American Football
At Ohio State, Olave made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2018, playing on both offense and special teams. He recorded 12 catches for 197 yards and three touchdowns in his debut season. Notably, he scored two touchdowns and blocked a punt in a significant victory against Michigan. Over his college career, Olave continued to excel, finishing with impressive statistics, including 65 receptions for 936 receiving yards and 13 receiving touchdowns in his final season in 2021. His performance led him to opt out of the 2022 Rose Bowl to prepare for the NFL draft.
Chris Olave Career
Early Career (2022-Present)
Chris Olave was selected by the New Orleans Saints in the first round of the 2022 NFL draft, being the 11th overall pick. He made his NFL debut in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons, where he had three receptions for 41 yards and contributed to a close victory. Throughout his rookie season, Olave demonstrated his skills, finishing with 72 receptions for 1,042 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns. His outstanding performance earned him a spot on the 2022 PFWA All-Rookie Team.
Breakthrough (2023-Present)
In the 2023 season, Olave continued to build on his success, catching eight passes for 112 yards in a game against the Tennessee Titans. He maintained a strong performance throughout the season, finishing with 87 receptions for 1,123 yards and five touchdowns. However, he faced challenges with concussions, which affected his playing time. In 2024, Olave had a reduced season due to injuries but still managed to contribute with 32 receptions for 400 yards and one touchdown.
Notable Works and Milestones
Chris Olave’s signature work includes his record-setting college career at Ohio State and his impactful rookie season with the New Orleans Saints. He has received accolades such as being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team and multiple All-Big Ten honors.
Chris Olave Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Chris Olave has received several nominations and accolades, highlighting his performance at both the college and professional levels.
Chris Olave Awards Won
Chris Olave has won notable awards, including being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2022 and earning First-team All-Big Ten honors in 2020 and 2021.
Chris Olave Family
Information regarding Chris Olave’s family is limited and not publicly detailed.
Personal Life
In October 2023, Chris Olave was arrested on suspicion of reckless operation of a motor vehicle, reportedly driving 70 mph in a 35 mph zone. This incident highlights some of the challenges he has faced off the field during his career.
