By Ross Jackson
For a team often criticized for not being a desirable destination for players, the New Orleans Saints sure do get their fair share of competitors that arrive and never want to leave.
Defensive end Cameron Jordan has long said that he wants to be a Saints lifer. After a recent extension, he’s been set up to be exactly that – just like his father was as a tight end with the Minnesota Vikings.
Running back Alvin Kamara has been consistent in expressing the same sentiments and even safety Tyrann Matheiu, who joined the team three seasons ago, has said that he would like to finish his career with his hometown Saints.
Now, fans can add wide receiver Chris Olave to the list.
“It’s all rumors, man,” Olave said about reported trade talks that involved him. “You see in the NBA, some of the top players be in trade rumors. Everybody be in trade rumors in the offseason. Everybody trying to have something for clicks. I love it here, man. I love the front office. I love my coaches. I’m excited to be here and I want to be here forever. This is where I want to be.”
Olave, a 2022 first-round pick, is entering the fourth year of his rookie deal, and the Saints did pick up his fifth-year option. The idea that the wideout, who will be the focus of the team’s passing offense, would be moved voluntarily is preposterous. But that didn’t stop other teams from reaching out.
The former Ohio State Buckeye has made it clear, though, that he wants to remain in New Orleans. He returns to the field in 2025 after his season was cut short last year and has looked fantastic on the practice field.
He could receive an early extension this offseason if his team and the organization decide to be proactive about the situation. However, there’s little to no rush. With 2026 on the books, the two could go to the negotiating table next offseason to try to make Olave’s desires of remaining in New Orleans a reality.
