Gunner Olszewski Injury News & Updates
Keep up with the latest injuries from the Commanders vs Giants game on Dec 14, 2025 with our National Football League injury report.Dec 1, 2025
Done for Week 13 due to concussion
Olszewski will be sidelined for the remainder of Monday's game against New England after being diagnosed with a concussion, Art Stapleton of The Bergen Record reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski took a huge helmet-to-helmet hit while returning a kick in the second quarter. He lost a fumble on the play and was immediately evaluated for a concussion. Now that a concussion has been confirmed, Olszewski won't be able to return to the contest, and he'll conclude the week with three kick returns for 54 yards. The Giants are on bye Week 14, but Olszewski will need to clear the NFL's concussion protocol in order to suit up Sunday, Dec. 14 against Washington.
Nov 17, 2025
Offensive role fades
Olszewski didn't log a target or a touch in Sunday's Week 11 loss to Green Bay. He returned two punts for 17 yards.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski had been building up a role in the passing game over the previous two weeks and particularly last Sunday against Chicago, when he logged a season-high 38 percent offensive snap share. However, he was left out of the offensive game plan entire against the Packers, as all nine of his snaps came on special teams. The change in role probably was due in part to the Giants replacing former head coach Brian Daboll with Mike Kafka, who has taken over in an interim role. It's also worth noting that newcomer Isaiah Hodgins -- who was added to the 53-man roster just last Thursday -- took on a prominent role in the offense right away, leading New York with five catches and 57 yards while finishing with a 79 percent offensive snap share. Finally, Jalin Hyatt -- who had missed two of the team's previous three games (once as a healthy scratch) -- was given a chance to see more work, tallying a season-high 62 percent offensive snap share and recording a season-best 18 receiving yards. Add it all up and it looks lik
Nov 10, 2025
Moving up WR depth chart
Olszewski didn't catch either of his two targets in Sunday's Week 10 loss to Chicago. He also called for a fair catch on his lone chance at a punt return.
ANALYSIS
Though Olszewski couldn't reel in either of his two targets, he undoubtedly made a positive impression on New York's coaching staff when he astutely punched the ball away from Bears cornerback Nahshon Wright on what looked like a sure interception in Chicago's end zone. Also of note is that Olszewski logged a 38 percent offensive snap share, third-highest among Giants wideouts behind Wan'Dale Robinson (99 percent) and Darius Slayton (62 percent). The only other New York WR to get any offensive snaps was Ray-Ray McCloud, who logged a 27 percent snap share. Meanwhile, Jalin Hyatt didn't see the field, making it clear that Olszewski has jumped over Hyatt in the pecking order, at least temporarily. Whether or not that continues moving forward remains to be seen, though, as the Giants fired head coach Brian Daboll on Monday, casting uncertainty about what lies ahead for the team's personnel, depth chart and playbook.
Nov 2, 2025
Makes first catch since 2023
Olszewski caught his only target for a 24-yard touchdown Sunday in a loss to San Francisco. He also returned three kicks for 80 yards.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski has worked almost exclusively a special-teamer for the past three campaigns, but he got a little work on offense Sunday after Beaux Collins went down with a neck injury in the third quarter. Olszewski made the most of his opportunity, hauling in a 24-yard reception from Jaxson Dart with under 90 seconds remaining in the game. The 49ers had essentially wrapped up the win by that point, but it was still a positive moment for Olszewski, who made his first regular-season reception since he caught one pass in 2023 and scored his first offensive touchdown since 2020. He doesn't figure to suddenly become a central part of New York's passing game, but given the very shaky state of the receiving corps behind Wan'Dale Robinson and Darius Slayton, Olszewski could get more looks on offense moving forward, especially if Collins needs to miss additional time.
Sep 21, 2025
Cleared to play against KC
Olszewski (back) is active for Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski ended the week with a DNP on Friday after logging consecutive limited practice sessions, but he has been cleared to play in Sunday night's game. He's worked exclusively on special teams through the first two games of the regular season and has accrued 62 punt return yards and 29 kick return yards over that span.
Sep 19, 2025
Questionable for Week 3
Olszewski (back) is listed as questionable ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Chiefs.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski downgraded from limited participation in practice Wednesday and Thursday to a DNP on Friday, suggesting he's trending in the wrong direction ahead of Sunday's contest. If the Bemidji State product is unable to go in Week 3, Devin Singletary and Wan'Dale Robinson are expected to serve as the Giants' top kick and punt returners, respectively.
Sep 17, 2025
Limited with back issue
Olszewski (back) was limited in Wednesday's practice, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski has played a total of 20 special-teams snaps through the Giants' first two games, returning six punts for 62 yards and one kickoff for a gain of 29 yards.
Aug 29, 2025
Back with Giants
The Giants signed Olszewski to a contract Friday, Dan Salomone of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski is back with Big Blue after initially being released by the Giants on Wednesday. He hasn't caught a pass in a regular-season game since 2022 with the Steelers, but he's expected to serve in a return role with the Giants in the upcoming season.
Aug 28, 2025
Released by G-Men
Olszewski was released by the Giants on Wednesday, Dan Salomone of the team's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The wide receiver signed with New York in late July after spending most of 2024 on the club's injured reserve list. Olszewski recorded over 300 punt-return yards and over 400 kick-return yards in both the 2020 and '21 campaigns with New England, and his success as a returner was expected to give him a chance to compete for a role with the Giants, but it was not enough to earn him a spot. Now, the former Patriot, Steeler and Giant will have to look elsewhere for his next opportunity.
Jul 28, 2025
Back with G-Men
The Giants signed Olszewski to a contract Monday, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski will return to the Giants for a third season. He didn't end up playing a single regular-season snap in 2024 after injuring his groin during Week 1 warmups, which resulted in him being placed on injured reserve. Olszewski's experience as a returner gives him a path to make the Giants' 53-man roster at the end of training camp.
Jan 16, 2025
Spends almost all of 2024 on IR
Olszewski didn't see any NFL action in 2024, as he injured his groin during warmups in Week 1 and spent the remainder of the campaign on injured reserve.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski first hurt his groin during a training-camp practice in mid-August but appeared to have recovered enough to play in Week 1. However, he aggravated the issue ahead of the season-opener versus Minnesota and was never designated to return. Olszewski has only 15 career regular-season catches over 65 contests, but he's had ample NFL success as a returner. He's slated to be an unrestricted free agent and could draw interest from clubs looking to upgrade their special-teams unit.
Sep 14, 2024
Lands on IR
The Giants placed Olszewski (groin) on injured reserve Saturday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski hurt his groin in mid-August but was initially cleared to play against Minnesota in Week 1. However, he aggravated the injury during warmups and was subsequently ruled out. Olszewski's placement on IR means he'll need to miss at least New York's next four contests. Ihmir Smith-Marsette appears poised to take over kick and punt return duties in Olszewski's absence.
Sep 9, 2024
Missing some time
Olszewski expected to miss "weeks" after sustaining a groin injury during warmups before Sunday's 28-6 loss to the Vikings, Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski has been dealing with a groin issue since mid-August, and after aggravating it Sunday, it appears he'll miss some time. It's currently unclear how many weeks Olszewski is expected to miss, but until the Bemidji State product recovers, expect Tyrone Tracy and Darius Slayton (concussion) to assume the Giants' kick and punt return duties, respectively.
Sep 8, 2024
Won't play Sunday
Olszewski aggravated a groin injury in warmups and has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Vikings, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski's absence likely won't have an affect on the Giants' plans at receiver in Week 1, but his return skills will be missed in the season opener.
Sep 6, 2024
Ready for Week 1
Olszewski (groin) has no injury designation ahead of Sunday's Week 1 affair against the Vikings, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The sixth-year pro out of Bemidji State has been dealing with a groin injury for a couple of weeks, but it now appears he's moved past the issue. With Olszewski back to full health, he's expected to serve as the Giants' top kick and punt returner in 2024.
Sep 4, 2024
Not yet 100 percent
Olszewski (groin) was a limited participant during practice Wednesday, Charlotte Carroll of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski has had his offseason program derailed, first sidelined by a foot injury suffered during spring practices, then the current groin injury. The 27-year-old is expected to operate as the Giants' primary return man if he proves himself healthy enough to suit up Sunday against the Vikings. If not, Darius Slayton would likely be called upon to handle the role.
Aug 29, 2024
Hopeful for Week 1
Head coach Brian Daboll said Thursday that Olszewski (groin) is heading in "the right direction" and should be ready for the Giants' regular-season opener against the Vikings on Sept. 8, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski missed all of summer minicamp after suffering a foot injury during OTAs. He was cleared at the start of training camp, but he sustained a groin injury during practice Aug. 17 and has been limited in his participation since then. Olszewski is expected to serve as the Giants' primary returner for the regular season, but in his absence, Darius Slayton and Wan'Dale Robinson have been taking reps as punt returners during practice.
Aug 17, 2024
Injured Thursday
Olszewski went down with a groin injury in Thursday's practice and will be out for a while, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.
ANALYSIS
The 6-foot return specialist's groin injury ended up sidelining him for Saturday's 28-10 preseason loss against Houston. Olszewski was primed to be the token returner for the Giants, but Isaiah McKenzie took the reps during the preseason game and will likely continue to do so.
Jul 25, 2024
Cleared for training camp
Olszewski (foot) is participating in training camp practices this week, North Jersey's Chris Pedota reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski was injured during OTAs earlier this spring but is ready to roll for the start of camp. After being cut by the Steelers in October of last season, Olszewski landed with the G-Men and appeared in 10 games for New York. He returned 23 punts for 273 yards and one touchdown but played just eight snaps on offense.
Jun 6, 2024
Expected back for training camp
Coach Brian Daboll said Thursday that Olszewski (foot) should be back on the field for training camp, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski could be done for the rest of spring after leaving practice late May to an apparent foot/ankle injury, but it looks like he won't be sidelined too long. He worked primarily as a punt returner in 2023 and should continue to contribute on special teams for the Giants, though the addition of Isaiah McKenzie this offseason provides him some competition.
May 31, 2024
Suffers injury during OTAs
Olszewski appeared to hurt his foot and/or ankle during practice Thursday, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski slipped while making a cut during on-field workouts and left practice early. It's unclear at this point how serious the injury may be. Olszewski worked primarily as a punt returner last season and should get an opportunity to handle that role again in 2024, though newcomer Isaiah McKenzie is also candidate to take on those duties.
Mar 11, 2024
Inks new deal
Olszewski re-signed with the Giants on a one-year contract Monday, Jordan Raanan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski joined the G-Men last October after being released by the Steelers. Ultimately, he proved to be successful in handling the team's punt return duties, averaging 11.9 yards per return and taking one back for a touchdown in Week 17 against the Rams. He'll now have the opportunity to lock down that role again in 2024.
Jan 12, 2024
Stabilizes return game for G-Men
Olszewski finished the season with one reception on one target for zero yards over 12 games between the Giants and Steelers. He added 24 kick-return yards and 281 yards, along with a touchdown, as a punt returner.
ANALYSIS
As has been the case throughout his career, Olszewski worked primarily on special teams, with his one reception representing the lowest single-season mark across his five-year career. After seeing game action just twice over the first seven weeks of the campaign with Pittsburgh, the 27-year-old found a home in New York, taking over as the team's primary return man and recording his third career touchdown on a 94-yard punt return against the Rams in Week 17. He's set to be an unrestricted free agent, and it wouldn't be surprising if the Giants look to bring him back to fill the same kick/punt-returner role after he stabilized what had been a weak spot for the team prior to his arrival.
Dec 13, 2023
Limited to punt-return duties
Olszewski logged all nine of his snaps on special teams in Monday's 24-22 win over the Packers.
ANALYSIS
Since joining the Giants in late October, Olszewski hasn't factored into the mix at receiver. He's played all 39 of his snaps with New York on special teams, where he seems to have solidified himself as the team's top punt returner. He's brought back 12 punts for 111 yards through his first six games with the Giants.
Nov 3, 2023
Promoted to active roster again
The Giants signed Olszewski off their practice squad to their active roster Friday, Dan Salomone of the Giants' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski joined the Giants' practice squad ahead of Week 8 and worked as the team's lead punt returner versus the Jets after getting signed to the active roster. He was subsequently released and signed back to the active roster, and he has now been elevated again ahead of a Week 9 clash with the Raiders. The Giants have been hampered by poor punt-return play throughout the campaign, and both Eric Gray (calf) and Gary Brightwell (hamstring) are currently on IR, so Olszewski could stick as the team's lead punt return moving forward. He's not likely to see much work on offense, however.
Oct 31, 2023
Back on practice squad
Olszewski re-signed with the Giants' practice squad Tuesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
ANALYSIS
No surprise here, as Olszewski was cut following his elevation to the active roster for Week 8 against the Jets. He ultimately saw 11 snaps on special teams (30 percent), and averaged 9.3 yards on six punt returns. The 26-year-old is likely to be elevated in Week 9 to once again play a punt returning role.
Oct 30, 2023
Gets released Monday
The Giants released Olszewski on Monday, Field Yates of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski is free to be re-signed at any time, and per Dan Duggan of The Athletic, the transaction is probably just a clerical one by the Giants. He will likely be returning punts again for Big Blue in Week 9 at Las Vegas.
Oct 28, 2023
Catches onto active roster
The Giants signed Olszewski to their active roster Saturday, Dan Duggan of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski joined the Giants' practice squad Monday just two days after being let go by the Steelers. Duggan reports that Olszewski is set to take over as the primary punt returner.
Oct 23, 2023
Joins Giants' practice squad
The Giants signed Olszewski to their practice squad Monday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Just two days after being released by Pittsburgh, Olszewski has already found another opportunity with the Giants. Barring an injury though, it doesn't seem like the Giants will be pressed to elevate Olszewski any time soon.
Oct 21, 2023
Officially let go
The Steelers officially released Olszewski on Saturday, Teresa Varley of the team's official website reports.
ANALYSIS
No surprise here, as Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com previously reported this transaction was expected. Olszewski's exit will presumably open up a roster spot for fellow pass catcher Diontae Johnson (hamstring) should he be activated off IR ahead of Week 7. Oszewski was primarily used as a returner during his two games on the 53-man roster.
Oct 20, 2023
Set to be released
The Steelers plan to release Olszewski, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Per Pryor, the looming move likely paves the way for fellow WR Diontae Johnson (hamstring) to be activated off IR ahead of Week 7 action. In two games this season, Olszewski, who has also seen work as a returner, has one catch for zero yards.
Oct 8, 2023
Playing Sunday
Olszewski is active ahead of Sunday's game against the Ravens, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The 26-year-old will suit up for the second time this year, and he'll likely be Pittsburgh's main kick returner this Sunday. Olszewski returned one kick for no yards during his only appearance this season.
Oct 1, 2023
Healthy scratch Sunday
Olszewski (coach's decision) is inactive Sunday against the Texans.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski was in concussion protocols at the start of the week, but he was able to clear the league's five-step process Thursday. It's not clear if the team is just choosing to go with the safe route here regarding the Bemidji State product's health, or just prefers to have someone else active. Calvin Austin will likely handle kick return duties in Olszewski's absence.
Sep 28, 2023
Clears protocols
Olszewski cleared the NFL's concussion protocols Thursday, Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski was able to practice in full Wednesday, helping to clear the way for him to gain clearance to play Sunday against the Texans. The 26-year-old missed the team's Week 3 win over the Raiders. after suffering the concussion in Week 2 against the Browns.
Sep 27, 2023
Practices fully Wednesday
Olszewski (concussion) was a full participant in Wednesday's practice.
ANALYSIS
It's unclear if Olszewski is through the concussion protocol, but the full practice does put him on track to return for Week 4 after he missed last Sunday night's win over the Raiders. The slot man has played just one snap each on offense and special teams this season.
Sep 22, 2023
Ruled out again
Olszewski (concussion) will not play against the Raiders on Sunday, Brooke Pryor of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski suffered a concussion against the Browns last that will now force him to miss Sunday's contest. With the 26-year-old out, Pittsburgh will likely turn to Godwin Igwebuike to handle kick return duties.
Sep 20, 2023
Out with concussion
Olszewski (concussion) was a non-participant at the Steelers' practice Wednesday, Teresa Varley of the team's official website reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski suffered a concussion in Monday's 26-22 win over Cleveland and he has now opened the week unavailable for practice as a result. The wide receiver will have to clear concussion protocol prior to potentially playing Sunday versus the Raiders. It's unclear if Olszewski has taken any steps to do so, but he has two more chances to practice this week.
Sep 18, 2023
Will not return
Olszewski (concussion) will not return to Monday's game against the Browns, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski's absence will leave the Steelers with just four healthy receivers for the remainder of the game. He had recorded one reception for zero yards prior to leaving the game. He will need to clear the league's concussion protocols this week in order to suit up for Week 3.
Sep 18, 2023
Doubtful to return
Olszewski is considered doutbtful to return to Monday's matchup with the Browns due to a concussion.
ANALYSIS
Olsezewski would need to quickly clear the league's concussion protocols in order to return. If he is unable to return, that leaves the Steelers with just four healthy receivers. He had recorded one reception for zero yards before exiting the game.
Sep 10, 2023
Healthy scratch
Olszewski (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against San Francisco, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
The former All-Pro return man lost his role as kick and punt returner last season and was on the verge of not making Pittsburgh's active roster this year. Olszewski's next chance to be active on game day will come in Week 2 against Cleveland.
Aug 30, 2023
Makes 53-man roster
Olszewski has made the Steelers' 53-man roster, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski was on the Steelers' roster bubble ahead of Tuesday's deadline to finalize rosters, but the receiver will remain with the team heading into the 2023 regular season. He didn't see much offensive work last season, securing five of seven targets for 53 yards while rushing eight times for 39 yards. He'll have additional competition for touches in 2023 after the Steelers acquired Allen Robinson during the offseason.
Aug 28, 2023
On roster bubble
Olszewski is in danger of being cut by the Steelers ahead of the regular season, Mark Kaboly of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski spent the 2022 campaign with the Steelers but saw minimal work in the passing game, securing five of seven targets for 53 yards while rushing eight times for 39 yards. He took on some occasional return duties, but those might not be enough to keep him on the 53-man roster after Pittsburgh acquired Allen Robinson during the offseason. Over his three preseason appearances this year, he secured eight of 11 targets for 63 yards while rushing once for four yards.
Jan 8, 2023
Doubtful to return
Olszewski is doubtful to return to Sunday's game against the Browns due to a knee injury, someone reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski logged two carries for four yards before departing this weekend's matchup versus Cleveland with a knee injury. Steven Sims and Miles Boykin should both receive additional snaps in the second half behind starters Diontae Johnson and George Pickens.
Nov 30, 2022
Logs carry in Monday's win
Olszewski went without a target but carried once for a nine-yard gain in Monday's 24-17 win over the Colts.
ANALYSIS
Since Chase Claypool was traded to the Bears on Nov. 1, Olszewski and Steven Sims have essentially shared the No. 3 receiver role while Diontae Johnson and George Pickens have led the position group. In the three games that have followed, Sims has played 84 snaps on offense, while Olszewski has logged 72. In that span, Olszewksi has recorded 52 total yards on four touches (three catches, one carry).
Nov 21, 2022
Racks up 39 yards
Olszewski secured two of three targets for 39 yards during the Steelers' 37-30 loss to the Bengals on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski had his first reception of the season last week and had an uptick in offensive production during Sunday's Week 11 matchup. He played 42 percent of the team's offensive snaps and was relatively efficient with his limited opportunities. While the 25-year-old has been slightly more involved in Pittsburgh's offense after the team traded Chase Claypool to the Bears, Olszewski still hasn't had a very fantasy-relevant role for managers outside of deeper leagues.
Oct 9, 2022
Loses role as returner
Olszewski (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Bills, Chris Halicke of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski has fumbled twice across four games in his role as the Steelers' primary kick and punt returner. As a result, he'll be inactive for the first time this season. Steven Sims appears to be a candidate to takeover Olszewski's role on special teams.
Sep 5, 2022
Listed as top return man
Olszewski is listed as the top kick returner and punt returner on the Steelers' Week 1 depth chart, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski spent the last three seasons with the Patriots and drew just 12 targets over that stretch, but he carved out a role as a returner in New England. It seems as though he'll play a similar role for the Steelers, as he's slated to serve as depth among the team's receivers but should have a chance to make an impact in the return game.
Mar 18, 2022
Joining Steelers
Olszewski has agreed to a two-year, $4.2 million deal with the Steelers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Over his three seasons with the Patriots, Olszewski recorded just nine catches, but perhaps the 25-year-old will be more involved as a pass-catcher with the Steelers in 2022. In any case, the 6-foot, 190-pounder should continue to make his mark as a quality punt/kick returner.
Mar 16, 2022
Headed for free agency
Olszewski won't be offered a contract tender by the Patriots, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
As a result, the depth wideout/special-teamer will become an unrestricted free agent. It's still possible the 25-year-old could end up re-signing with New England, but he'll now have an opportunity test free agency. In three NFL seasons, Olszewski has recorded just nine catches, but his ability as punt and kick returner will no doubt assist in finding him a landing spot for the 2022 season.
Jan 25, 2022
Mimimal role in offense this season
Olszewski finished the 2021 regular season with two catches (on three targets) for 31 yards and one carry for nine yards in 16 games.
ANALYSIS
While Olszewski wasn't much of a factor in the team's offense, he once again made his mark by serving as New England's primary kick and punt returner this past season. The 25-year-old is a pending restricted free agent this coming offseason, but Paul Perillo of the Patriots' official site suggests that Olszewski is a candidate to be retained via a restricted contract tender.
Dec 6, 2021
Active Monday
Olszewski (ankle) will be available for Monday's game against the Bills.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski was limited at practice all week before drawing a questionable designation. Look for him to take on his usual role providing depth at wide receiver assuming he avoids any setbacks.
Dec 4, 2021
Questionable against Bills
Olszewski (ankle) is questionable for Monday's game against New England, Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski landed on the injury report to begin the week and has logged three consecutive limited practices. That leaves him questionable for Monday, and his potential absence would leave a key void in both New England's kick and punt return game.
Dec 3, 2021
Picks up ankle issue
Olszewski (ankle) was a limited practice participant Friday.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski began the week on the injury report and has logged two limited practices since. That will give him the opportunity to suit up Monday against the Bills, though there should be more clarity come the team's final practice Saturday.
Nov 17, 2021
Cleared for Thursday
Olszewksi (concussion) was not listed on the Patriots' injury report ahead of Thursday's contest against the Falcons.
ANALYSIS
After not practicing Monday and only being a limited participant Tuesday, Olszewksi was not listed on Wednesday's injury report. The 24-year-old missed Sunday's contest against the Browns with a concussion, but he looks to be back for Thursday night's game. The 2019 undrafted free agent will continue to be utilized more on special teams than in the offensive gameplan.
Nov 13, 2021
Won't play against Browns
Olszewski (concussion) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Browns.
ANALYSIS
With Olszewski sidelined, J.J. Taylor will likely take over as the return man on punts and kickoffs. Taylor could see a more prominent role in the Patriots backfield as well, as starting running back Damien Harris has also been ruled out due to a concussion.
Nov 12, 2021
Listed as questionable
Olszewski (concussion) is considered questionable for Sunday's game versus Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski remains in concussion protocol and will need to clear it before kickoff Sunday in order to suit up. If he ends up being unable to play, J.J. Taylor would presumably be next in line to handle return duties for the Pats.
Nov 11, 2021
Diagnosed with concussion
Olszewski has been diagnosed with a concussion, per the Patriots' official site.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski was unable to return to Sunday's game against the Panthers due to a head injury, and he was held out of practice Wednesday and Thursday after being diagnosed with a concussion. If he hopes to play Sunday against the Browns, he'll likely need to practice in some capacity Friday.
Nov 7, 2021
Won't return
Olszewski (head) has been ruled out of Sunday's matchup against the Panthers.
ANALYSIS
The exact nature of Olszewski's injury is unclear, though he was ruled out quickly. He has served as both the primary kick and punt returner in New England, so the team will have a significant void to fill on special teams.
Nov 7, 2021
Questionable to return
Olszewski (head) is questionable to return Sunday, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski suffered the injury on a punt return in the first half and will likely get evaluated for a concussion. If he is unable to get back in the game Kyle Dugger will be in like to take over Olszewski's role.
Aug 29, 2021
Will play in preseason finale
Olszewski (undisclosed) will suit up for Sunday's preseason finale against the Giants, Zach Cox of NESN reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski was not seen at the Patriots' joint practice with the Giants on Thursday and did not practice Friday either. It is unclear what caused his absence, but it doesn't appear to be too significant as the prolific return man has returned to action for the preseason finale.
Aug 27, 2021
Sits out Thursday's joint practice
Olszewski (undisclosed) was not seen at Thursday's joint practice against the Giants, Ryan Hannable of WEEI.com reports.
ANALYSIS
It is not clear why Olszewski wasn't at practice. After a prolific season as the Patriots' primary return man, the 24-year-old was selected to the AP 2020 All-Pro First Team as a special teamer. If he is unable to go for the final preseason game on Sunday expect J.J. Taylor and Kyle Dugger share Olszewski's vacant reps.
Jan 14, 2021
Strong work on special teams
Olszewski finished the 2020 season with five catches (on five targets) for 62 yards and a TD and five carries for 23 yards in 13 games.
ANALYSIS
While Olszewski didn't see much work in the Patriots offense this past season, he did make quite a mark as a returner, fielding 18 kickoffs for 418 yards and 20 punts for 346 yards and a TD. His strong effort in that department led to the 24-year-old being selected to the AP 2020 All-Pro First Team as a special teamer. Olszewski is under contract with New England through 2021and should thus reprise his role in the return game this coming season. Whether he sees more opportunities as a pass catcher, however, hinges largely on the team's offseason moves at the wide receiver position.
Dec 6, 2020
Makes two trips to end zone
Olszewski turned his only target into a 38-yard touchdown and added a 70-yard punt return touchdown during Sunday's 45-0 win over the Chargers.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski put his team out to a 14-point lead when he returned a punt down the sideline to paydirt in the second quarter and capped off the scoring with a 38-yard touchdown reception from Jarrett Stidham in the final minutes. He came into the game with just five carries and two receptions to his name this season, so the two-score effort was certainly surprising. Olszewski could make the case for more involvement in the offense moving forward after flashing his potential in this one, but he seems unlikely to produce reliable fantasy numbers in Thursday's matchup with the Rams.
Nov 10, 2020
Logs three carries in Week 9
Olszewski carried three times for 16 yards and lost a yard on his only catch in Monday's 30-27 win over the Jets.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski logged 35 (out of a possible 81) snaps on offense in the contest, as his role has expanded of late, with Julian Edelman (knee) on IR and N'Keal Harry dealing with a concussion. Despite the added work, Olszewski's impact outside of the team's return game has remained modest.
Nov 2, 2020
Logs 42 snaps Sunday
Olszewski recorded one carry for six yards in Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Bills.
ANALYSIS
With Julian Edelman (knee) on IR and N'Keal Harry out with a concussion, Olszewski started and logged 42 of a possible 65 snaps on offense Sunday, but didn't log a target. If Harry returns in Week 9 and/or the Patriots add wide receiver help prior to the trade deadline, Olszewski could see decreased snaps next Monday against the Jets. In any case, Olszewski is off the fantasy radar as long he remains an afterthought in New England's passing game.
Oct 5, 2020
Activated from IR
Olszewski (foot) has been activated off IR in advance of Monday night's game against the Chiefs, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The return of Olszewski will be a boost to the Patriots' return game, but he re-enters the team's Week 4 mix behind Julian Edelman, N'Keal Harry and Damiere Byrd in the Patriots' wide receiver pecking order.
Sep 30, 2020
Resumes practicing
Olszewski (foot) is participating in Wednesday's practice, Andrew Callahan of The Springfield Republican reports.
ANALYSIS
The Patriots have designated Olszewski to return from IR, meaning the team will have a 21-day window to add him to the active roster. He's expected to contribute as a depth wideout and option in the return game when healthy.
Sep 12, 2020
Lands on injured reserve
Olszewski (foot) has been placed on injured reserve with a designation to return Saturday, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski was ruled out for the team's Week 1 matchup against Miami on Friday. However, he'll now be sidelined until at least Week 4. His absence will leave a void in both kick and punt return duties, with Matthew Slater and Damiere Byrd primary options to take over.
Sep 11, 2020
Unavailable against Dolphins
Olszewski (foot) won't play in Sunday's game versus the Dolphins, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski looked good in training camp, but he sustained an injury recently and won't be available for the season opener. With N'Keal Harry (shoulder) considered questionable, the Patriots' receiver corps could be shorthanded in Week 1. Jakobi Meyers and Matthew Slater should both see increased reps to start the year as a result.
Sep 9, 2020
Limited by foot injury
Olszewski (foot) was limited at practice Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
We now know that Olszewski is dealing with a foot issue, but his presence on the field this week suggests that he could be ready to go for Sunday's season opener against the Dolphins. Olszewski is part of a Patriots receiving corps that's work in progress. Though he's clearly behind both Julian and Edelman and N'Keal Harry in the team's pecking order -- and probably Damiere Byrd to start the season -- the team's lack of proven depth could open the door for expanded opportunities for Olszewski as the campaign rolls along.
Sep 7, 2020
Spotted at Monday's practice
Olszewski (undisclosed) was present for the media-access period following Monday's practice, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
While Olszewski was absent at the beginning of Monday's practice for an unspecified reason, it's encouraging that he was present toward the end while other injured players remained away from the team. While it's unclear if Olszewski participated at full speed, we should know more about the nature of his injury when the first official injury report is revealed Wednesday. The 23-year-old wideout was impressive in training camp and is slated to be the No. 4 receiver in New England once he's healthy since the team cut Mohamed Sanu and Jeff Thomas.
Sep 7, 2020
Has missed practice
Olszewski has missed practice of late with an unspecified issue, NESN's Zack Cox reports.
ANALYSIS
On the plus side, the 6-0, 190-pounder survived roster cuts and as the team's receiving corps is presently stands, the Bemidji State product is is a break or two away from entering the fantasy equation. It's possible that further roster moves are on the horizon for the Patriots, but Olszewski's strong training camp made it easier for the team to move on from veteran Mohamed Sanu and waive both Jeff Thomas and Devin Ross.
Aug 24, 2020
Having good camp
Olszewski has had a strong training camp, Doug Kyed of NESN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
With that in mind, Kyed indicates that to date, "Olszewski has looked like the second best WR in camp behind Julian Edelman." A strong camp and the fact that he can be a factor as a returner help Olszewski's chances of making the Patriots' regular-season roster, but he's clearly behind Edelman, N'Keal Harry and Mohamed Sanu in the team's wide receiver pecking order. The 6-foot, 190-pounder also has the likes of Damiere Byrd and Jakobi Meyers to contend with for depth slotting.
Jun 23, 2020
Clear of ankle injury
Olszewski (ankle) was taking part in informal throwing sessions with other wideouts and Jarrett Stidham, Christopher Smith of Mass Live reports.
ANALYSIS
The 23-year-old caught two passes for 34 yards and averaged nine yards on 20 punt returns in eight games before landing on injured reserve with the ankle issue in November, but he apparently didn't have any problems during his recovery. Olszewski figures to work in depth role again in 2020 while also splitting punt return duties with Julian Edelman.
Nov 19, 2019
Placed on injured reserve
Olszewski (ankle) was placed on injured reserve by the Patriots on Tuesday, Jim McBride of The Boston Globe reports.
ANALYSIS
Accordingly, Olszewski's season is over. He totaled two catches for 34 yards on the season to go with 179 yards on punt returns. Mohamed Sanu (ankle) handled punt-return duties in Week 11 against the Eagles and if healthy, figures to share those duties with Julian Edelman going forward.
Nov 17, 2019
No-go for Week 11
Olszewski (ankle) is officially inactive for Sunday's game against the Eagles.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski practice in a limited basis Friday, and as evidenced by this news, seems to be dealing with an issue serious enough to force him to miss time. In his stead, Matthew Slater and Julian Edelman will be called upon to handle kick and punt return duties respectively.
Nov 15, 2019
Officially questionable
Olszewski (ankle/hamstring) is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Eagles.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski was limited in Friday's practice due to ankle and hamstring issues. If the rookie first-round pick were forced to miss any time, Matthew Slater and Julian Edelman would field kicks and punts, respectively.
Nov 13, 2019
Healthy going forward
Olszewski (ankle) was absent from the injury report Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski missed the Week 9's loss to the Ravens, but he leveraged the bye week to get healthy. The rookie wideout will suit up for Sunday's game against the Ravens, but he's not expected to have a major role on offense, especially with rookie first-round pick N'Keal Harry in line for his NFL debut.
Nov 3, 2019
Unavailable for SNF
Olszewski (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Ravens.
ANALYSIS
The rookie receiver's main contribution is as a returner. Matthew Slater figures to return kicks while Julian Edelman could field punts in Olszewski's place.
Nov 1, 2019
Questionable Week 9
Olszewski (ankle/hamstring) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Ravens, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewksi played through the ankle and hamstring injuries last week after being listed as questionable and appears primed to do so again Week 9. The 22-year-old should work as the Patriots' primary return man, assuming he suits up.
Oct 30, 2019
Logs limited practice
Olszewski (ankle/hamstring) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Nora Princiotti of The Boston Globe reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski managed to play through his lingering ankle and hamstring injuries during Week 8's win over the Browns, so there's not yet any reason to doubt his availability for Sunday's tilt against the Ravens. If he's able to go, the Bemidji State product will do most of his damage as New England's primary kick and punt returner.
Oct 27, 2019
Ready for Week 8
Olszewski (ankle/hamstring) is officially active for Sunday's game against Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski suited up in last week's game despite coming into it with a hamstring injury, and will do the same thing for Week 8. Now that he's officially healthy, the undrafted rookie will be deployed as a depth receiver, and act as the team's starting return man on punt and kick returns.
Oct 25, 2019
Questionable for Sunday
Olszewski (ankle/hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Browns, Nora Princiotti of The Boston Globe reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski was suited up for this past Monday's game against the Browns despite a hamstring injury, and it appears he's picked up an ankle injury, too. The undrafted rookie managed to practice in a limited fashion this week, and his official status won't be clear until 90 minutes before Sunday's kickoff at 4:25 p.m. ET. With Phillip Dorsett healthy and Mohamed Sanu in the fold, Olszewski will likely remain on special teams if he's able to go.
Sep 28, 2019
Hamstring injury crops up
Olszewski (hamstring) has been added to the New England's injury report ahead of Sunday's matchup with Buffalo, Mike Reiss of ESPN's NFL Nation reports. He's listed as questionable.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski isn't an impact player on offense but normally handles punt return duties. Julian Edelman would be the likeliest candidate to take over punt return duties if Olszewski can't go.
Aug 23, 2019
Dealing with head injury
Olszewski suffered a head injury during Thursday's preseason game against the Panthers but is expected to play in the preseason finale against the Giants, Doug Kyed of NESN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Olszewski was one of a few Patriots who suffered an injury in Thursday's exhibition, though he's unlikely to miss any game action. Assuming he's cleared to play, he'll have one more opportunity to prove he belongs on the 53-man roster.