Olave has a heartwarming explanation regarding his emotions.
Anxiety isn’t a topic that hits many airwaves when it comes to the NFL. For New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave, it was a piece of the gridiron puzzle that was on his mind heavily during the team’s Week 10 matchup at the Carolina Panthers. Last season, Olave suffered a season-ending concussion in Carolina during their Week 9 game. It was an incredibly scary moment for him as a player and a person.
It was the young wideout’s second concussion of the season. That is a terrifying truth that pushed questions from plenty of fans and media alike about his long-term future in football. Keep in mind that Olave had a documented concussion in 2022 and 2023 with the Saints as well. After New Orleans’ most recent win, which included a phenomenal performance, he was given the platform to discuss that anxiety regarding the past.
After the emotional victory, Olave opened up about how difficult it was to be in the same place where his season ended during last campaign. It was something he had to consider before ever playing a snap, but he overcame all of those tough memories to help the Saints get their second win of the season.
“As soon as I stepped on the field, I just felt it all over again,” Olave said. “It was a tough situation from last year. It ended my season.”
“My Pop was here too, so I went over to talk to him, pregame, tried to loosen my mind up.” — Olave via Katherine Terrell
Olave said he felt a lot of anxiety being back in Bank of America Stadium after suffering a season-ending concussion last season. pic.twitter.com/n4uK5ddP3z
You can tell that the playmaking pass catcher values the opportunity to dawn the black and gold an incredible amount. If he didn’t, there would be no sense in risking another concussion or major injury down the road. Olave can definitely rejoice in the fact that he overcame plenty of negative thoughts and emotions to come through with one of the best games of his pro career in Carolina.
With his five receptions for 104 receiving yards vs. Carolina, Olave now has 251 career receptions. He became the 15th Saint all-time with 250+ catches in franchise history. He also caught an important touchdown against the Panthers as well.
Past all of the stats and production, or even the win for his team, it is fantastic to see him back on the field and healthy. Scary moment like concussions can alter a career and a life. Saints fans should truly appreciate how committed he is to the city and the franchise.
Olave has one year left remaining on his current contract after the Saints picked up his fifth-year option. The two sides have discussed a contract extension, so we will see how that unfolds in the near future.
“Whenever you call, you know my answer is yes. Playing for my country is an honor like no other, and it’s something I cherish deeply. It’s not just about baseball; it’s about representing all the fans, the people who support you, and the pride of wearing that USA jersey. I’ll never take that for granted, and I’m ready to give everything I’ve got for Team USA.”
— Pete Crow-Armstrong
Pete Crow-Armstrong, the rising star of the Chicago Cubs, has made it clear: he’s ready to bring his electrifying game to the world stage. The center fielder, fresh off a breakout 2025 season where he hit 31 home runs and joined the 30/30 club—the first Cubs player to do so since Sammy Sosa—has confirmed he will play for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Crow-Armstrong’s decision to join Team USA isn’t just a professional milestone; it’s a personal one. The young star, known for his unmatched athleticism and passion for the game, is eager to represent his country in what is arguably baseball’s most prestigious international competition.
“Whenever you call, you know my answer is yes,” said PCA, his voice full of pride. “Playing for my country is an honor like no other. It’s not just about baseball; it’s about representing all the fans, the people who support you, and the pride of wearing that USA jersey. I’ll never take that for granted, and I’m ready to give everything I’ve got for Team USA.”
His breakout season with the Cubs has turned heads across the league. With a 109 wRC+ and 5.4 fWAR, PCA proved he is more than ready for the big stage. His 31 home runs and 30 stolen bases placed him in elite company, joining Cubs legend Sammy Sosa in an exclusive club of players who have accomplished the 30/30 feat. As he heads into the World Baseball Classic, PCA will bring a potent bat and his impeccable skills in center field, ready to lead Team USA.
While PCA has secured his spot as a fan favorite in Chicago, his inclusion in Team USA could be the next chapter in his meteoric rise. “This is about something bigger than myself,” Crow-Armstrong said. “It’s about the pride of wearing that jersey, the history behind it, and knowing that every time I step on the field, I’m representing not just the country, but the love and support of everyone who’s ever rooted for me.”
With the 2026 World Baseball Classic just around the corner, Crow-Armstrong’s passion for the game and country has made waves. But with his combination of power, speed, and defense, he’s poised to take over as one of the standout stars for Team USA. Baseball fans across the globe will have their eyes on this rising superstar, as he takes his game to the next level.
As the Cubs continue to build for the future, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s journey with Team USA will be a pivotal moment for both the player and the sport. If the 2025 season was any indication, we’re just scratching the surface of what PCA can do. The World Baseball Classic is about to get a whole lot more exciting.