New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave was given a high honor by being selected to the second team All-Pro. This is a huge deal for the fourth year veteran receiver and is his first time he’s been recognized by the Associated Press. Beyond that, this will have major implications on his upcoming contract talks.
Olave tallied a career high 100 receptions, 1,163 yards, and nine touchdowns this season. He was able to stay on the field and contribute despite injury concerns in recent years. Olave had an excellent connection with rookie quarterback Tyler Shough down the stretch. This bodes well for the future and should give fans hope of a bright 2026 campaign.
The Saints picked up Olave’s fifth year deal before the season. This means he’s going into the last year of his rookie contract and is looking for an extension. The Saints will likely try to work on a deal this offseason and solidify Olave in the Big Easy for the foreseeable future.
Chris Olave making All-Pro will be a major bargaining point in contract talks
Olave getting recognized for his elite performance is an outstanding achievement and shows fans his value, but its main impact will be in contract negotiations. Don’t underestimate the value of the title “All-Pro” in these talks. The stats would be the same regardless of the accolade, but him being named to the team undoubtedly raises the price.
To create a ballpark of his potential contact it’s wise to look at some recent wide receiver contracts. For perspective, Ja’Marr Chase is the highest paid wide receiver in the league making north of $40 million per year. Olave won’t make that much, but it’s important to put a ceiling on it. Here are some players his contract could land close too.
Ceedee Lamb- $34 million (3rd highest paid)
DK Metcalf- Approximately $33 million
Garrett Wilson- $32.5 million
Olave’s play is most similar to Garrett Wilson; they were in the same draft class and have had relatively even impacts. However, Olave’s will likely be higher because of his All-Pro nomination (Wilson has no All-Pro’s or Pro Bowls) and him signing a year later. Fans should expect his contract to be just a little bit higher, likely ranging around Ceedee Lamb’s.
This may be a lot, but fans shouldn’t worry. The Saints are wizards about the cap and can easily clear enough space. What’s important is that they get this deal done so Shough has his receiver one for the foreseeable future.