Is Chris Olave Heading To The Jets?

Sep 15, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave (12) runs with the ball during the first half against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

With the 2025 NFL Draft officially in the books, it’s time for teams to pivot to the next phase of the offseason. For many, this means looking ahead to the second wave of free agency or exploring trade opportunities to bolster their rosters. For the New York Jets, the focus is clear: they need to revamp their wide receiver corps ahead of the upcoming season, and a potential trade for New Orleans Saints receiver Chris Olave could be a game-changing move.

The Jets have undergone significant changes this offseason. With a new general manager, Darren Mougey, and head coach, Aaron Glenn, paired with an upgraded quarterback in Justin Fields, the foundation is being set for a more dynamic offense. Fields, known for his dual-threat capabilities, promises to elevate the unit beyond what they had last season with Aaron Rodgers at the helm.

While the addition of Fields is a step in the right direction, the Jets’ receiving options need substantial improvement for their offense to truly thrive. Current standout Garrett Wilson, who played alongside Fields at Ohio State, leads the pack, but the supporting cast—consisting of Josh Reynolds and Allen Lazard—leaves something to be desired. The Jets did bolster the tight end position by selecting Tyler Warren in the draft, but it’s evident that the wide receiver position remains a critical area needing attention.

This is where Chris Olave enters the discussion. The Saints, while they certainly have their own wide receiver needs, appear to be on the verge of a rebuilding phase. This unique situation places Olave in a valuable trade position, as the Saints could leverage him for multiple picks to aid in their future roster construction. With his rookie contract nearing its end, trading Olave now could maximize the return for New Orleans.

Bringing Olave to the Jets would not only enhance their offensive firepower but also add an exciting dimension with his ability to stretch the field. His chemistry with Fields, having previously played together at Ohio State, could lead to immediate dividends. In three NFL seasons, Olave has already racked up 2,567 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns over 191 receptions, all while playing in a less-than-stable offense in New Orleans. Imagine the potential for growth in a more productive system.

The idea of reuniting this Buckeye trio—Fields, Wilson, and Olave—has the makings of a formidable offensive lineup. It brings the potential to ignite a Jets offense that has struggled to find rhythm in recent years. Acquiring Olave could be the catalyst for a more exciting and effective attack, providing the Jets with the spark they desperately need as they aim to turn the page and head toward a prosperous season.