ESPN's Bill Barnwell just dropped a bombshell, projecting Chris Olave's trade value at a first-round pick. Yeah, you read that right. A *first-rounder*! And while Saints fans are probably doing a full-on double take, the timing couldn't be wilder with those extension talks for Olave dragging out. This isn't just some offhand guess, either. This is ESPN saying, "Hey, if something goes sideways, this is what he's worth."
The Saints Went All-In For Shough, So Why The Hold Up?
Look, the New Orleans Saints have been going ALL OUT this offseason, right? They've been stacking up their offense around their second-year quarterback, Tyler Shough, making sure he's got all the weapons he needs. We're talking Jordyn Tyson in the first round, Travis Etienne Jr. added through free agency, a reworked deal for Alvin Kamara, and bringing in David Edwards to shore up that offensive line. Every single one of those moves screamed, "We believe in Shough, and we're building around him." So, for Olave's extension talks, the guy Shough knows and trusts as his top target, to be grinding to a halt? That's the real head-scratcher here. You build all that up, and then risk losing the guy who makes it all click? It just feels... off.A First-Rounder For Olave: The "Incredibly Unlikely" Catch
So, Barnwell's projection is a first-round pick. Massive, right? But here's where it gets complicated. The source says a trade only *remotely* makes sense if two things happen: the Saints can't hammer out a long-term deal for Olave, *and* they can land a first-round pick from a top Super Bowl contender in exchange. Oh, and they'd likely need to snag another wide receiver in the same deal or a separate one. It's a logistical nightmare, honestly. Plus, as the Saints have so clearly prioritized giving Shough talent, keeping a receiver that Shough already has chemistry with is just a no-brainer. This whole trade scenario feels like something cooked up in a video game, not real life.Don't Panic, Saints Fans: Olave Isn't Going Anywhere (Probably)
Alright, before Saints fans start hyperventilating into their paper bags, the good news is the projection isn't meant to send Olave packing. The word from the source is that this whole trade scenario is "incredibly unlikely" and "doesn't seem like a possible solution right now." Olave is "not likely to leave anytime soon," even with his rookie deal ticking down and those extension talks moving at a snail's pace. He's expected to stay as Shough's undisputed No. 1 target. Barnwell's projection is really just about gauging Olave's market value, not saying he's on the trade block. It's like checking the Kelley Blue Book value on your car, even if you love it and have no plans to sell. The Saints need to get that extension done for their QB's sake. The season is underway, and having Shough's go-to guy locked up is crucial for everything they're trying to build.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.