Pittsburgh's Receiver Reshuffle

The Pittsburgh Steelers' aggressive offseason strategy faces its biggest test as rumors swirl about acquiring New Orleans Saints receiver Chris Olave. After trading for DK Metcalf and moving George Pickens to Dallas, Pittsburgh still needs reliable targets for quarterback Justin Fields. Rookie Roman Wilson's injury setbacks leave the Steelers considering bold moves before training camp.

The Concussion Question

Olave's medical history gives teams pause. The 2022 Offensive Rookie of the Year finalist suffered three documented concussions between 2023-2024, including a season-ending head injury last November. While his 87.4% route participation when healthy ranks top-10 among NFL receivers, teams must weigh his 23% missed game percentage over two seasons.

New Orleans' Roster Calculus

The Saints' new coaching regime under Kellen Moore seeks financial flexibility after Derek Carr's retirement. Olave's $6.13M 2025 cap hit becomes expendable as New Orleans eyes 2026 cap space. Moore's preference for bigger-bodied receivers (6'3"+), compared to Olave's 6'0" frame, makes this potential trade timeline plausible.

Trade Mechanics Breakdown

League sources suggest these possible packages:

- Steelers receive: Chris Olave + 2026 5th-round pick
- Saints receive: 2025 3rd-round pick + WR Calvin Austin III

This structure allows Pittsburgh to manage injury risk while giving New Orleans immediate draft capital and a replacement receiver.

Medical Due Diligence

Steelers team neurologists would need to review Olave's concussion protocols. The 24-year-old's latest scans reportedly show no structural damage, but his 14-day recovery after the November concussion exceeded standard timelines. Pittsburgh's updated practice protocols (no helmet-to-helmet contact in drills) could help mitigate risk.

Alternative Options

If talks stall, Pittsburgh might pursue:
1. Keenan Allen (31 years old, higher short-term cost)
2. DJ Moore (requires first-round pick compensation)
3. Brandon Aiyuk (contract demands exceeding $28M/year)

Final Analysis

This potential trade represents Pittsburgh's philosophy under Mike Tomlin - betting on premium talent over perfect medicals. While Olave's concussion history can't be ignored, his 2.71 yards per route run (3rd among 2024 WRs) justifies the gamble. A conditional 2026 pick based on games played could balance risk for both franchises.