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Chris Olave has been the primary wide receiver for the New Orleans Saints during the 2024 NFL season so far. He was expected to be counted on in an important NFC South divisional clash in Week 6 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His game unfortunately ended early in the first half when he suffered a concussion and was ruled out for the remainder of the contest.
His former teammate Michael Thomas quickly went to his X account to comment on the hit that took Olave out of the game. He apparently felt as though the referees should have called a targeting penalty for what appeared to be a brutal helmet-to-helmet hit.
Thomas questioned:
"Damn, no targeting?"
Buccaneers cornerback Zyon McCollum delivered the hit on Chris Olave, who also fumbled the football during the play. Safety Antoine Winfield scooped it up and returned it all the way for a Buccaneers defensive touchdown to give them an early lead against the Saints.
Here's what the hit looked like:
It can clearly be seen that McCollum delivers a blow to Olave's head with his helmet, which is often a personal foul penalty in most NFL games. Thomas is questioning why it wasn't called on this particular play, which would have negated the Buccaneers' touchdown.
Chris Olave's history of concussions
Head injuries are always a concern for NFL players, especially those who suffer multiple concussions during their careers. Chris Olave has unfortunately entered that category as he has now reportedly suffered four of them between his collegiate and professional football careers.
The young wide receiver suffered a concussion during the 2020 college football season when he was still with the Ohio State Buckeyes. Since joining the New Orleans Saints, his Week 6 concussion during the 2024 NFL season is already his third such diagnosis since becoming a pro. He has now suffered one in each of the past three consecutive seasons.
His 2022 and 2023 concussions each forced him to miss one game before returning to the lineup. It is yet to be seen how long this one will keep him out of action.
