The New Orleans Saints have secured their top offensive weapon for the future, signing wide receiver Chris Olave to a massive contract extension worth up to $132 million. The four-year deal includes $90 million in guaranteed money, keeping Olave with the franchise through the 2030 NFL season.
The extension marks a major commitment from the Saints as they continue rebuilding after several difficult seasons following the retirement of legendary quarterback Drew Brees.
Saints Reward Chris Olave After Career-Best Season
Olave was previously set to play the 2026 season under his fifth-year option, which would have paid him approximately $15.4 million. His new contract more than doubles that figure, giving him an average annual salary of around $33 million.
The deal makes Olave the second-largest contract in Saints history and the biggest contract ever given to a non-quarterback by the franchise. He surpasses the previous record held by former Saints receiver Michael Thomas, who signed a five-year, $100 million extension in 2019.
Olave earned the massive payday after delivering the strongest season of his NFL career in 2025. The receiver recorded career highs with 100 receptions, 1,163 receiving yards, nine touchdowns, and 16 starts.
The Saints hope Olave can become a key part of their next competitive era alongside young quarterback Tyler Shough, who showed promising signs during his rookie season.
Olave, a former Ohio State standout, has quickly established himself as one of the league’s most reliable young receivers since entering the NFL. His consistency has made him a crucial piece of New Orleans’ offense as the team looks to return to playoff contention.
The contract also creates expectations, as previous high-profile Saints receiver extensions have produced mixed results. However, Olave enters his new deal without the injury concerns and setbacks that affected Thomas after his record-setting seasons.
With the 2026 NFL season approaching, Olave now becomes the centerpiece of the Saints’ offensive plans and one of the highest-paid receivers in the league.
