Should the Saints Look into Trading Their 2022 First-Round Receiver?
The New Orleans Saints are entering a pivotal stretch in their roster-building timeline, and one of the biggest questions looming over the franchise is whether they should consider trading their 2022 first-round pick, wide receiver Chris Olave. From the moment he arrived from Ohio State, Olave showcased elite talent, immediately flashing as one of the smoothest route runners in the league. In many ways, he's still the Saints’ most gifted offensive player and, at times, their lone dependable playmaker. Yet, as electrifying as his ability can be, there's a growing concern about his consistency. Despite his high ceiling, he hasn’t always delivered in the defining moments, especially this season.
Olave has dealt with injuries throughout his brief NFL career, nothing catastrophic, but enough to disrupt rhythm and momentum. Availability matters in the NFL, and while Olave has played through specific stretches, he hasn't consistently dominated like a true WR1 needs to. More concerning are the timely big plays that haven’t materialized when the Saints have needed them most. With Spencer Rattler stepping in at quarterback, Olave was expected to be the safety blanket and go-to weapon in pressure situations. Instead, he's had key drops in critical moments that stalled drives and cost the Saints crucial possessions.
The dilemma facing New Orleans is identity-based: What exactly is the former Ohio State receiver as an NFL receiver? His route running is undoubtedly elite, among the best in the league. Yet, great route running alone doesn’t automatically make someone a dominant WR1. The truly elite receivers separate themselves through contested catches, physicality, and the ability to elevate quarterbacks in chaotic situations. Olave, for all his polish, has not consistently shown that alpha mentality.
This wouldn’t be an issue if it weren’t for the impending contract situation. Olave is approaching the stage where receivers drafted in the first round begin pushing for extensions, and the market has exploded for pass-catchers. His former Ohio State teammates Garrett Wilson and Jaxon Smith-Njigba are both on track to secure massive deals in the near future. The question is whether the Saints are comfortable paying $25–30 million per year to someone who may not be the type of receiver they are looking for. Committing that kind of money to a player you’re only mostly sold on is one of the fastest ways to trap a franchise in mediocrity.
With several receiver-needy teams around the league entering desperation mode, trade calls are likely coming soon. A playoff contender with injuries at wideout or a young quarterback needing support could be willing to pay a premium for Olave’s services. If the Saints were offered a high draft pick, or even multiple picks, would they be willing to walk away from that kind of opportunity? In a league where flexibility often outweighs sentiment, long-term gain sometimes matters more than short-term stability. New Orleans must decide whether they’re holding on to Olave out of belief or simply out of comfort.
Trading Chris Olave wouldn’t be a sign of failure, but rather a calculated decision based on team identity and financial reality. The Saints must determine whether he is the future focal point of their offense or simply a valuable asset who might be more impactful elsewhere. If the organization isn’t fully confident in paying him like a true number one receiver, moving early rather than overpaying later could be the smartest choice. It’s a difficult conversation, but one that winning franchises are never afraid to have. Ultimately, holding or trading Olave may define the Saints’ direction for years to come.
