New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave is staring down a massive contract extension, with reports from The Athletic’s Larry Holder stating it’s likely to drop in the next couple of months. Holder expects the deal to happen before the 2026 campaign even kicks off. This is a big move for the Saints, and once it’s done, Olave is clearly their top guy for second-year quarterback Tyler Shough.
The Bounce-Back That’s Getting Him Paid
Olave’s journey to this payday hasn’t been smooth sailing. His 2024 season was riddled with injuries, a tough blow for any player looking to prove himself. But last year, 2025, was his absolute best with the Saints. The dude exploded, pulling in 100 receptions for 1,163 yards and nine touchdowns. That’s a serious stat line, right? He and Shough apparently clicked almost instantly, building a strong rapport that’s got everyone in New Orleans buzzing about a bright future. Those numbers are the reason the Saints are even having these contract talks.
The Catch: Consistency and Health
But here’s the kicker, the part Holder also threw in that you gotta pay attention to. The Saints aren’t just handing out a blank check. They want to see Olave consistently produce like a true No. 1 receiver. It’s not enough to have one monster season, they need him to maintain that pace. Plus, the injury history is clearly on their minds, because staying healthy is a huge part of living up to what’s going to be a “hefty payday.” They’re making sure their investment is smart money.
This isn’t just about a contract; it’s about the future of the Saints’ offense. Can Olave deliver back-to-back elite seasons and stay on the field? All eyes will be on him and Shough as the season approaches to see if they can validate this massive commitment.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
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