The health of two of the New Orleans Saints' most dynamic offensive weapons is a primary storyline as the 2026 offseason gets underway. Wide receiver Chris Olave and Swiss Army knife Taysom Hill are both on the mend from injuries that ended their 2025 seasons prematurely.
The situation with Chris Olave was the most concerning. Just before the season finale, doctors discovered a blood clot in the star receiver's lung, a serious medical condition that immediately shut him down. Reported on January 2-3, the news sent shockwaves through the organization. The latest updates, however, are positive. Olave is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for the team's offseason program. No setbacks have been reported in the last week. His return to full health is non-negotiable for an offense that desperately needs his elite route-running and playmaking ability.
For Taysom Hill, the issue is a shoulder injury sustained in Week 18. Head coach Kellen Moore clarified it was "just an AC" joint sprain. While typically less severe than the injury Olave faced, shoulder issues for a player who throws, blocks, and takes hits as a runner are significant. His status for the start of training camp is currently considered questionable. The Saints' offense under Moore utilizes Hill's unique skills extensively, so his availability for offseason installs and preseason work will be closely monitored.
On a broader note, the Saints' medical and performance staff received a nod for their work in 2025, as the team was among the top four in the NFL in preventing soft-tissue injuries. Maintaining that standard while successfully rehabbing key players like Olave and Hill will be critical for a team looking to turn the page on an injury-plagued and disappointing season.