The New Orleans Saints, mired in a disappointing 1-4 start in 2025, may be ready to shake things up, and their star wide receiver, Chris Olave, could be the centerpiece of a blockbuster trade. Olave, a 25-year-old with two 1,000-yard seasons in his first two NFL years, is reportedly drawing interest from teams around the league as the Saints contemplate a rebuild. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox has identified the Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots as potential suitors for the talented wideout, who has 244 receiving yards and a touchdown through five games this season despite playing in a lackluster quarterback situation.
Olave’s Undeniable Talent
Chris Olave’s potential is undeniable. Despite battling concussions earlier in his career, he’s healthy in 2025 and continues to shine as a bright spot on a struggling Saints roster. Over his first two seasons, Olave surpassed 1,000 receiving yards each year, a remarkable feat considering the inconsistent quarterback play in New Orleans. This season, he’s already hauled in 33 catches for 244 yards and a score, proving he remains a dynamic playmaker. However, with the Saints going nowhere fast, rumors are swirling that the team could be open to dealing key assets, and Olave is their most valuable trade chip.
Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football recently reported that teams across the NFL believe the Saints might be willing to move players, fueling speculation about Olave’s future. If the Saints decide to cash in on their star receiver, a bidding war could erupt, with the Steelers and Patriots emerging as prime candidates to land him.
Why the Steelers Are in the Mix
The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2025 season with a glaring weakness at wide receiver. Outside of DK Metcalf, their receiving corps lacks depth and star power. The situation has been exacerbated by an injury to Calvin Austin, leaving the team’s passing game in dire need of a boost. Olave, with his proven track record and ability to stretch the field, would be an ideal complement to Metcalf and a significant upgrade for Pittsburgh’s offense.
Adding Olave could provide the Steelers with the firepower needed to compete in a tough AFC North division. His ability to create separation and make contested catches would give quarterback Justin Fields or Russell Wilson a reliable target, potentially elevating Pittsburgh’s playoff aspirations. While Knox suggested a conditional 2026 first-round pick as a possible return for Olave, a second-round pick seems like a more realistic price given the market for wide receivers.
Why the Patriots Are Interested
In New England, the Patriots are building around their young quarterback, Drake Maye, and are in desperate need of weapons to support his development. While Stefon Diggs has been a solid No. 1 receiver, his age (31) and expiring contract make him a short-term solution. Olave, on the other hand, offers a long-term answer at the position. With his fifth-year option already picked up, Olave is under contract through 2026, giving the Patriots a cornerstone piece for their passing game.
Pairing Olave with Maye could accelerate New England’s rebuild and provide their quarterback with a dynamic target capable of turning short passes into big plays. Olave’s speed and route-running ability would complement Diggs, creating a formidable duo that could stretch defenses and open up opportunities for the rest of the offense.
The Trade Price Debate
While a conditional first-round pick has been floated as a potential return for Olave, that price might be too steep for both the Steelers and Patriots. The wide receiver market has cooled in recent years, and teams are often hesitant to part with first-round picks for non-elite players, even ones with Olave’s upside. A second-round pick, possibly paired with additional mid-round selections, feels like a more realistic trade package. The Saints, looking to stockpile draft capital for their rebuild, might find such an offer appealing.
For the Saints, trading Olave would signal a full commitment to rebuilding around younger talent and future draft picks. While losing a player of Olave’s caliber would sting, it could provide the assets needed to address multiple roster holes. For the Steelers and Patriots, acquiring Olave represents an opportunity to add a proven, young playmaker to their offenses, addressing immediate needs while securing a key piece for the future.
As the NFL trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on New Orleans to see if they pull the trigger on a deal involving Olave. If he hits the trade block, expect the Steelers and Patriots to be at the forefront of the chase, ready to engage in a fierce battle for the 1,000-yard talent stuck on a struggling team.