The New Orleans Saints may have missed the playoffs in 2025, but don’t let that fool you-this is a franchise that’s quietly building something real. With three cornerstone players locked in at premium positions-quarterback Tyler Shough, left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr., and wide receiver Chris Olave-the Saints are setting the foundation for a team that could be a legitimate NFC threat in the coming years. And now, with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, they have a chance to add another franchise-caliber player, possibly a top-tier corner or edge rusher, to that core.
But building around elite talent comes with a price tag. And for Chris Olave, that price is looking massive.
According to Spotrac, Olave’s market value is projected at just under $132 million over four years-roughly $32 million per year. That number would place him among the highest-paid wide receivers in the league, and it’s a reflection of just how valuable he’s become to the Saints' offense.
Now, $32 million per year is a serious chunk of cap space, especially for a wideout who’s dealt with some injury concerns. But context matters-and in New Orleans, the context is actually working in the Saints’ favor.
With Shough still on his rookie deal (as a second-rounder, no less), the Saints have rare financial flexibility at the quarterback position. That gives them room to invest in a player like Olave without immediately putting the cap in a stranglehold.
And make no mistake: Olave is the kind of receiver worth investing in. His route-running is elite, his chemistry with Shough is growing, and when he’s healthy, he’s a game-changer. Locking him down now not only secures one of the offense’s most dynamic weapons, but also sends a clear message-the Saints are serious about building a contender.
Of course, the long-term picture gets trickier. Eventually, Banks and Shough will be in line for big paydays of their own, assuming they continue to perform at a high level.
When that time comes, the Saints’ margin for error in roster construction will narrow. That’s why the next two seasons are so critical.
This is the window-while Shough is cheap, while Olave is still ascending, and while the team can use its draft capital to add impact talent on rookie contracts.
The Saints' recent four-game win streak to close the 2025 season gave us a glimpse of what this team can be when it clicks. The NFC South is there for the taking, and with a strong offseason, New Orleans could position itself as a playoff team as early as next year.
So yes, Olave’s projected $131 million deal is eye-popping. But in the context of where the Saints are-and where they’re going-it’s the kind of bold move that could define the next era of football in New Orleans. If they hit on this contract and continue to draft well, the Saints won’t just be building for the future-they’ll be competing in the present.