The New Orleans Saints appear torn between rebuilding and retaining their top talent, creating uncertainty around wide receiver Chris Olave’s future.
While trade speculation has surrounded the former first-round pick amid the team’s struggles, Olave recently confirmed that his representatives are in talks with the Saints on a long-term contract extension, signaling the franchise’s intent to keep him in New Orleans.
Yet despite that development, trade chatter continues to build, with both the New York Giants and New England Patriots emerging in recent discussions. The Saints’ 1-6 start has prompted analysts to wonder whether they might consider retooling their roster ahead of the deadline, leaving Olave’s status a topic of league-wide interest.
Patriots emerge as suitor amid Saints’ uncertainty
FanSided’s Zachary Rotman recently proposed that New Orleans could deal Olave to the New York Giants, describing the fit as ideal for quarterback Jaxson Dart. He noted that pairing Olave with Malik Nabers in 2026 “makes this fit a slam dunk.”
However, Rotman’s scenario seems unlikely given New Orleans’ ongoing extension talks. If the Saints plan to keep Olave long-term, moving him would contradict their stated direction.
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer outlined a separate angle, saying on Patriots Pregame Live that New England’s trade approach “is going to be to take a long-term view of this whole thing.”
Breer added that the Patriots are targeting “guys that are nearing the end of the rookie deals, where maybe their teams like the player, but don’t plan on signing them long-term.”
That sentiment has fueled rumors linking Olave to New England as a potential “reclamation project.” Injuries and instability in New Orleans have slowed his ascent, but a steady system under Mike Vrabel and quarterback Drake Maye could offer the reset he needs.
The Patriots, currently 5-2 after a 31-13 win over Tennessee, could offer a 2026 second- and sixth-round pick to outbid other suitors. Still, if the Saints truly view Olave as central to their future, any trade talk may remain just that, talk.
More NFL News