4 Trade Scenarios for Saints' Olave as Teams Learn New Orleans Is Open to Offers

The New Orleans Saints and the Possibility of Trading Chris Olave

After six weeks of the NFL season, the New Orleans Saints find themselves at 1-5, prompting speculation about potential moves before the trade deadline. With a less-than-stellar chance of making the playoffs, the team is reportedly open to trading some of its veteran players to acquire future draft capital. One player who has been mentioned in this context is wide receiver Chris Olave.

Olave was not available during the offseason, but with growing interest from other teams and a diminished playoff outlook for the Saints, it seems that the team may be open to deals involving him. Here are four hypothetical trade offers that could potentially come for Olave, based on insights from various beat writers.

Hypothetical Trade Offers for Chris Olave

Buffalo Bills

• Bills receive: Chris Olave
• Saints receive: Curtis Samuel, 2026 2nd-round pick, 2026 5th-round pick

The Bills, led by general manager Brandon Beane, have shown a willingness to make bold moves for high-profile players. If they were to acquire Olave, it would add a difference-maker to their offense. Samuel would provide depth and experience, while the draft picks offer long-term value for the Saints.

Pittsburgh Steelers

• Steelers receive: Chris Olave
• Saints receive: Alex Highsmith, 2026 3rd-round pick

The Steelers have been in talks with the Saints for some time, and now that the Saints are looking to rebuild, a deal could be more feasible. Olave's skills as a route runner and deep threat would complement the Steelers' offense, while Highsmith would strengthen their defensive line.

New York Giants

• Giants receive: Chris Olave
• Saints receive: 2026 4th-round pick, 2026 5th-round pick

The Giants have shown interest in acquiring Olave, similar to how the Browns traded for Jerry Jeudy. While the Saints may not get a high-value return, the two Day 3 picks could still be beneficial for their future.

New England Patriots

• Patriots receive: Chris Olave, 2026 5th-round pick
• Saints receive: Efton Chism, 2026 2nd-round pick

The Patriots are not desperate for a wide receiver, but adding Olave could help quarterback Drake Maye. The Saints would gain a second-round pick, which is valuable for their long-term plans. Chism, who has limited offensive roles, could make the deal more appealing for the Saints.

Which Offer Should the Saints Accept?

While the Saints are unlikely to seek a major talent swap, one of these offers includes an impactful defender, making it more intriguing. The Bills and Steelers offers stand out the most. The Steelers’ offer includes Alex Highsmith, a legitimate starting pass rusher, and a day two selection, which would address the Saints’ defensive needs.

The Bills’ offer also looks attractive, with a second-rounder and a fifth-rounder, along with Curtis Samuel. However, the Saints might prefer the Steelers’ deal, which provides immediate defensive improvement and a valuable draft pick.

The Patriots’ offer is fair but falls short compared to the others. The Giants’ offer, while acceptable, doesn’t match the value of the other deals. Ultimately, the Saints will likely choose the offer that best aligns with their current and future needs.

As the trade deadline approaches, it remains to be seen whether the Saints will move Olave or another wide receiver. For now, these hypothetical scenarios offer insight into what could happen if the team decides to pursue a rebuild.