Reports of the Pittsburgh Steelers expressing interest in New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave sent waves through the NFL over the weekend, sparking immediate speculation about what it would take to pry the rising star from the Saints. According to PennLive’s Nick Farabaugh, that cost would be anything but cheap.
Farabaugh reported Sunday that “the trade cost for Olave would not be light,” citing league sources who suggested it would take at least a Day 2 pick most likely a second-round selection to even get the Saints to pick up the phone.
“League sources had a consensus that it would take at least a day-two pick, likely a second-round pick, for the Saints to part ways with Olave before his fourth season, if they even consider trading him,” Farabaugh wrote. “Given the Saints have no reason or desire to move Olave, the cost is likely higher than that.”
The 2022 first-round pick has quickly emerged as a top target in New Orleans, showcasing polished route-running and consistent production despite instability at quarterback. With the Saints under no pressure to move Olave and still viewing him as a centerpiece of their offense, any realistic offer would have to be overwhelming.
While the Steelers are clearly looking to upgrade their receiving corps, pulling off a blockbuster for Olave would require both significant draft capital and a willingness from the Saints to shift their long-term vision—a combination that makes such a move feel unlikely, at least for now.
Chris Olave has quickly established himself as one of the NFL’s most promising young receivers since entering the league. Drafted No. 11 overall by the New Orleans Saints in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, Olave wasted no time making an impact, posting back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2022 and 2023.
In his rookie year, Olave showcased elite route-running and deep-threat ability, finishing with over 1,000 receiving yards despite inconsistent quarterback play. He followed it up with another strong start to the 2023 season, recording 32 catches for 400 yards and a touchdown in just eight games before a concussion sidelined him for the remainder of the year. At just 24 years old, Olave’s ceiling remains high, and his early production speaks to his value in the Saints’ offense.
Given his pedigree, production, and age, it’s no surprise the Saints are reportedly unwilling to entertain trade offers unless they’re overwhelming. Any team, including the Steelers, would need to offer significant draft capital likely starting with a second-round pick to even spark a conversation.