Chris Olave WR Ohio State: Scouting Report

Height: 6’1’’

Weight: 188

Overall

Chris Olave is an outside receiver in Ohio State’s spread, pass-heavy offense. In his 4 college seasons, he played in 47 games, starting 34 of them. After a very successful junior season, he decided to return to Ohio State for his senior year and was just as, if not more successful. He is a good all-around athlete and performed very well on the highest level in college football.

Pass Game

Olave has good footwork and technique off the line and does a good job of using his hands to separate early in his routes. In college he thrived on hitches, out routes, and crossing routes with his speed and ability to find space in zone coverage. In man coverage and deep routes though, he often struggled to create separation and did not show the explosiveness needed to beat defenders deep. He has good route savvy, but his routes are very rounded as well which again makes it difficult for him to create separation down the field. He has very good hands and can high point the ball in contested coverage. After the catch, he shows good vision and acceleration to get past defenders and gain extra yards. He is an all-around dynamic receiver, but he does not excel in any particular skill.

Run Game

Olave was rarely used in the run game but as a blocker he showed good effort and has the strength to open up space for his teammates.

Last Word

Olave can play as both and outside X receiver and a Z receiver who moves around the line of scrimmage. He has the talent to potentially grow into a number one receiver, but I think he projects best as a number two receiver who can consistently make plays over the middle and on hitch routes. With his hands he can be a very reliable receiver especially on 3rd downs. He was not used on special teams in college but has the athleticism to be used at the next level.

One-Liner: Chris Olave is an all-around good receiver who can make big plays, but he struggles creating separation and does not excel at any particular skill which limits his ceiling.

Grade: 6.7 (Solid Starter on All 3 Downs)

Games Watched: 2021 – Oregon, Minnesota, Penn State, 2020 – Nebraska, Penn State

Team Fits: Chicago Bears, Miami Dolphins, Detroit Lions