The New Orleans Saints are in freefall following Derek Carr’s retirement, and some reports across the league believe the team could trade wide receiver Chris Olave as they embrace a long-overdue rebuild. A first-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Ohio State product has been one of the game’s more dangerous receivers when on the field. Unfortunately, he’s struggled to stay on the field, as Olave has suffered four concussions since entering the league, including two last year.
Given the serious nature of his head injuries, the fact he’s almost at the end of his rookie contract, and his perceived disdain for the organization itself, nobody should be surprised if the Saints trade Chris Olave before the start of the regular season. Having a talented wide receiver like Olave would make life easier for presumed starter Tyler Shough, but receiving a high draft pick is more beneficial for this team’s long-term outlook. According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers have both inquired about Olave’s availability.
REPORT: Browns, Steelers In Trade Talks For Saints Chris Olave
It’s easy to see why both teams are calling the Saints about a Chris Olave trade. The Cleveland Browns have one of the least talented offenses in the league, led by a disastrous four-headed monster at quarterback. Early reports indicate veteran Kenny Pickett and third-round rookie Dillon Gabriel will enter the offseason as the top two quarterbacks on the depth chart, but nobody should be surprised if Joe Flacco and fifth-round pick Shedeur Sanders eventually see the field.
No matter who is under center, the quarterback will struggle to move the ball if Jerry Jeudy is the only reliable receiver on the field. Perhaps free agent signee Diontae Johnson can bounce back after a disastrous 2024, but the Browns shouldn’t bet on it. A Chris Olave trade would be the best way for the Browns to see if either one of their young quarterbacks can develop into the long-awaited savior for this city and franchise.
More Help In Pittsburgh
The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2025 offseason desperately needing another wide receiver. The D.K. Metcalf trade gave them a reliable downfield playmaker, but they’ll need more help to finally have a high-powered offense for the first time since 2018. Mason Rudolph is an adequate short-term starter and high-end backup, but he can’t elevate a team with only one real weapon. Aaron Rodgers is still a free agent and could join the club, but the four-time NFL MVP is nowhere close to the player he used to be.
Mike Tomlin’s solid coaching ensures this team will be somewhat competitive, but they need more talent to make a deep playoff run. If the Saints are willing to trade Chris Olave, the wide receiver could help form one of the league’s better wide receiver duos and help bring some life to this offense.
Main Photo: Bob Donnan – Imagn Images
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