Chris Olave

Chris Olave showcased impressive usage metrics, commanding a 25% target share and a 40% air yards share, highlighting his integral role in the Saints' offense. Despite tallying 87 receptions for over 1,100 yards and 5 touchdowns, he's often perceived as a fantasy WR2. With Derek Carr returning at QB, there's hope for continued improvement, especially given their improved chemistry in the latter part of the season. Olave ranked second in catchable target rate (89%) post bye week.

Did Olave match last year's hype with his production? No. Did he woefully fail, and we should be worried about him in 2024? NOPE. Olave displayed growth with new career highs in targets, receptions, receiving yards, and fantasy points per game (14.5, WR19). Last year, among 81 qualifying receivers, Olave ranked 24th in YPRR and 16th in FD/RR. Olave had to deal with the ups and downs of Derek Carr last year, which smoothed out toward the end of the season with the Saints changing up the complexion of the passing offense, which should continue in 2024. Carr last year was tied to two outcomes. It was either wind-up and chuck it deep or check it down, as Carr ranked eighth in deep attempts while also having the sixth-highest check-down rate. In Weeks 1-12, New Orleans had the fifth-highest aDOT while ranking 14th in catchable target rate with the 16th-highest off-target rate. In Weeks 13-18, the Saints changed it up as their aDOT was the 11th-lowest, and the offense ranked first in catchable target rate with the lowest off-target rate. With Klint Kubiak now the offensive coordinator, we should expect this lower aDOT model to continue with more motion and YAC opportunities opening up for Olave. The needle is pointing up for 2024.