The Pittsburgh Steelers are making headlines in the NFL offseason by targeting New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave.
The Steelers are looking at potential replacements for George Pickens. He was recently traded to the Dallas Cowboys.
Despite the Steelers’ strong interest, trade negotiations with the Saints have hit a roadblock. That leaves fans and analysts speculating about the future of both franchises.
Steelers’ wide receiver overhaul
The Steelers’ decision to move on from Pickens was not made lightly.
Pickens (2,850 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns in three seasons) was dealt to Dallas. In exchange the Steelers got a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-rounder. The Cowboys also sending back a 2027 sixth-round pick.
This move followed the Steelers’ acquisition of DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks, signaling a significant shift in offensive philosophy.
Steelers general manager Omar Khan addressed the team’s approach:
“If there’s an opportunity to add a playmaker or an offense, you know, regardless of whether it’s the receiver or whatever it is, you know, we’re going to look into it, and if it makes sense, it makes sense,” Khan said.
Why Chris Olave?
Chris Olave, a former first-round pick out of Ohio State, quickly established himself as one of the NFL’s most promising young receivers, posting back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons before injuries hampered his 2024 campaign.
The 24-year-old’s speed, route-running, and playmaking ability have made him a coveted asset, and the Steelers have “called the Saints to check on Olave’s availability,” according to multiple reports.
Insider John Frascella noted, “the Steelers love the idea of acquiring Olave, but are far apart on any type of deal.”
Challenges: Concussion history and Saints’ stance
Olave’s recent history of concussions is a significant concern.
He’s suffered four confirmed concussions in the NFL and another during his college career, limiting him to just eight games in 2024.
Despite being cleared to practice late last season, Olave did not return to the field. He addressed his situation candidly:
“I sat (the rest of) this year out just to be able to protect myself long term,” Olave said. “I’ve got a family, and I want to be there for a long time. Just trying to protect myself. Playing football is something that brings me joy. I just want to go out there and compete and have fun.”
The Saints, meanwhile, are hesitant to part with Olave, especially given their thin receiver depth behind him.
Financially, the Steelers could absorb Olave’s contract, but the Saints would incur a dead money charge if they traded him before training camp.
As of now, “New Orleans does not seem interested in trading Olave. As of this morning, nothing is close to a trade or imminent,” reported Nick Farabaugh of PennLive.
What’s next for Pittsburgh?
With OTAs and training camp approaching, the Steelers remain vigilant, seeking to bolster their receiver corps alongside DK Metcalf.
While Olave remains a top target, the gap in trade valuation and his health history make a deal uncertain.
As the offseason unfolds, Pittsburgh fans will watch closely to see if the front office can land another dynamic playmaker or if Olave will remain another elusive target.