Saints' Olave: 'I'm still considering' Guardian Cap
New Orleans Saints receiver Chris Olave is considering donning a Guardian Cap after sustaining a concussion in Week 6.
"I'm still considering it. I was considering last game, ended up going with the regular helmet," Olave said according to ESPN's Katherine Terrell.
The Guardian Cap is a protective piece of headwear that goes over a player's helmet to help reduce the risk of head injuries and concussions. De'Von Achane and James Daniel are among the players to wear Guardian Caps this season. Most players are required to wear the equipment during practice sessions but have the option of not wearing it on game days.
Olave has missed a number of games over the course of his three seasons in the league due to concussions. He was placed in league protocol after suffering an injury in Week 5 of his rookie season that caused him to miss a game. He also missed a contest against the Atlanta Falcons.
The concussion Olave sustained this season came after he made a catch against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was evaluated by team doctors before heading to the locker room and was ruled out for the remainder of the contest.
The Ohio State product avoided injury after being hit in the helmet during the team's 26-8 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. He was evaluated for a concussion but was allowed to return and finished the game with eight catches for 107 yards. He then considered wearing a Guardian Gap in Week 8 but opted to wear a new type of helmet instead.
"I was good, man," Olave said. "I know every big hit they kind of check for concussions and stuff, especially with my history. I was good when I got up, though, so I knew I was going to be able to go back in."
While it's unclear whether Olave will change his headwear, it appears almost certain that quarterback Derek Carr will be back under center for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers after missing the past three contests with an oblique injury.
Olave leads the Saints with 387 yards and has hauled in 31 catches and one touchdown.