Saints Aim to Lock Up Star WR Chris Olave with $30M Contract

New Orleans weighs long-term deal despite Olave's concussion history

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:34am

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The New Orleans Saints are in contract extension talks with star wide receiver Chris Olave, with reports indicating the team is considering a deal worth around $30 million per year. However, Olave's history of concussions is complicating the negotiations as the Saints look to retain one of their top offensive threats.

Why it matters

Olave has emerged as one of the NFL's most productive young receivers, but his concussion issues raise concerns about long-term durability. The Saints must weigh Olave's immense talent against the risks of a lucrative long-term contract, as they aim to keep their passing attack potent while managing salary cap constraints.

The details

According to insider Matthew Parra, the Saints have not yet agreed to a $30 million per year contract for Olave, but that range is still on the table. Nine NFL receivers currently average at least $30 million per year, though only three exceed $35 million. Olave's concussion history, including two that caused him to miss significant time in 2024, is a key factor complicating the negotiations.

  • In 2025, Olave played the entire season and recorded 100 catches for 1,163 yards and 9 touchdowns.

The players

Chris Olave

A star wide receiver for the New Orleans Saints who is due for a contract extension, but his history of concussions is complicating the negotiations.

Matthew Parra

An insider who provided insight into the Saints' contract talks with Olave, including the team's hesitation to offer a $30 million per year deal due to the receiver's concussion issues.

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What they’re saying

“Only three receivers average more than $35 million per year, but nine make at least $30 million. The Saints haven't entirely balked at the latter range, but don't appear to have gotten there yet. And the guarantees are especially relevant to these talks. Despite Olave playing 16 games last year without suffering a brain injury, the wide receiver's concussion history complicates the negotiation.”

— Matthew Parra, Insider

What’s next

The Saints and Olave will continue contract negotiations, with the team's primary concern being the long-term risk of Olave's concussion history despite his immense talent and production.

The takeaway

The Saints face a difficult decision in balancing Olave's value as a top receiver against the potential health risks of a lucrative long-term deal. This negotiation highlights the challenges teams face in retaining elite talent while managing salary caps and player safety concerns.