Want to know what a Chris Olave extension would look like for the New Orleans Saints? Go look at the deal Garrett Wilson inked with the New York Jets on Monday afternoon.
Wilson signed a four-year contract worth $130 million and $90 million guaranteed, per reports. Wilson is coming off the best year of his career, and New York signed him to a deal in the first year he was eligible for an extension. There haven't been any whispers about an Olave extension, but you'd have to imagine it would be similar.
Wilson and Olave were teammates at Ohio State and were drafted less than 10 spots apart in the first round of the 2022 NFL draft. The duo has naturally be connected in the pros as well. There numbers are similar and you have to wonder if Wilson's contract sets up a template for when the Saints and Olave go to the negotiation table.
Garrett Wilson's situation with the Jets is slightly different than Chris Olave's standing with the Saints
It feels like Olave is looking for a season similar to Wilson's 2024 campaign. Wilson set his career-high in yards with 1104. Olave's 2023 total was higher than that, but Wilson elevated in a category neither of them have been strong in, touchdowns. Wilson's 7 receiving touchdowns was the most of his career.
In addition to touchdowns and yards, Wilson also set a career high in catches. What makes this achievement most impressive is he did it with Davante Adams joining New York halfway through the year. That's a true number one receiver with an existing connection to Aaron Rodgers. Still, Wilson found a way to shine.
It felt like Wilson truly established himself in a way Olave has yet to do. Though their numbers are similar, Wilson is spoken about in a greater light than Olave. The New York market probably plays a part, but remaining productive with a receiver like Adams next to you speaks volumes as well.
Chris Olave's injury history is the biggest deterrent to an extension
The other aspect of the conversation is Olave's injuries. It's hard to imagine the Saints giving Olave an extension at this point because of the concussion history. Not only does Olave's history impact the likelihood of an extension, it also impacts what it could look like.
Wilson's deal is $32.5 million per year. Olave may get slighly less because of the circumstances previously discussed. He's had less availability and is still looking to leave a definitive mark. Most importantly, the guaranteed money would have to be a serious discussion.
Olave matching that number may be more difficult. It would be unsurprising to see Olave have a contract with incentives included if he were to sign before the season. The incentives would revolve around Olave's ability to stay on the field. This would protect the Saints while also keeping Olave from being shorted in negotiations.
The most likely scenario is Olave has to play out 2025 on his rookie deal. If he stays healthy through the entire season, an extension should be signed next year. Waiting a year could cost the Saints some money, but it would make more sense to wait for a healthy season before signing the contract.
