Chris Olave expects his extension with the New Orleans Saints to get done soon, and he has not backed away from that confidence. The fourth year receiver has been present throughout voluntary offseason work, choosing to stay on the field rather than apply pressure from the sidelines.
His message has been consistent: keep working, keep the locker room tight, and let the business side play out.
Olave Confident in the Extension Timeline
Olave told WBRZ he believes negotiations are trending toward a resolution before training camp. He said he feels the two sides are going to come down to an agreement before camp and added that he hopes the deal gets finalized so it does not affect team chemistry heading into July. That optimism mirrors the tone from Saints leadership. General manager Mickey Loomis recently said the sides are not there yet, but both want a long term agreement in place.
The confidence makes sense. Olave is entering the fifth year option season of his rookie contract, which is set at 15.493 million in 2026. He is also coming off his best season as a pro, which only strengthens his position.
Olave’s Production Sets the Stage
The Saints drafted Olave 11th overall in 2022 with the expectation that he would become a true number one receiver. He has delivered. In 2025, he posted career highs with 100 receptions, 1,163 yards and nine touchdowns. Those numbers are confirmed across league databases and offseason reporting.
His route running, separation ability and consistency regardless of quarterback play have made him the centerpiece of the Saints passing game. He has topped 1,000 yards in three of his first four seasons and remains one of the league’s smoothest wideouts.
Saints Offensive Plans Make an Extension Even More Important
New Orleans has spent the offseason building around its young core. The team drafted wide receiver Jordyn Tyson in the first round, pairing him with Olave to give second year quarterback Tyler Shough a more dynamic receiving group. The Saints view Shough as a long term starter, and securing Olave would give him a stable number one receiver.
Moore has publicly praised Olave’s offseason work and called it impressive. That is a clear sign that the coaching staff sees him as a foundational piece. When a new offensive system is being installed, having your top receiver fully engaged matters.
Why Olave’s Approach Matters
In an era where star players often skip voluntary workouts to gain leverage, Olave has taken the opposite approach. He has been present, active, and vocal about wanting to maintain chemistry with his teammates. He told reporters he is committed to winning and views the contract as the business side of the game.
His decision to show up does not diminish his leverage. It highlights his confidence that the deal will get done. It also resonates inside a locker room that values professionalism and continuity.
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