Saints star WR Chris Olave makes bold prediction for next season that has a chance to backfire

New Orleans expects to be back in the playoff fold next year.

Adam Holt NFL News Writer
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Dec 21, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave (12) celebrates a touchdown against the New York Jets with wide receiver Kevin Austin Jr. (81) during the fourth quarter at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

The New Orleans Saints are where teams don’t want to be right now around the NFL. They’re watching the playoffs from their couches or already on vacation.

They do not expect that to be the case after the 2026 season, though. Instead, the Saints want to build on their strong finish to the season under young head coach Kellen Moore. Moore’s second season could have postseason expectations surrounding it, especially when you consider the lack of strength in the NFC South.

Saints’ expectations for 2026 may surprise some people

In a tweet thread following his appreciation for being named to the AP All-Pro second team, Olave was sure to make a prediction for his team’s outlook next season. The top Saints wideout, who could receive a sizable contract extension this offseason, sees New Orleans in the postseason next season.

If New Orleans wants to see the postseason next year, Olave will be a massive piece to that puzzle. He eclipsed over 1,000 receiving yards this year in a campaign where he stayed available and mostly healthy. Most of all, he avoided any sort of concussion situation and proved how talented and productive he is when he stays on the field.

Meanwhile, rookie quarterback Tyler Shough proved plenty of doubters wrong in his first season under Moore.

Shough looked decisive, confident, and mobile on a weekly basis. He emerged as a potential rookie of the year candidate after only starting for about half of the season for the Saints. That’s impressive.

Regardless, New Orleans was only a couple of wins from hosting a playoff game this season. Next year, it is absolutely all on the table for them, and one of their top offensive weapon understands that. He expects it from them, and that’s a great trait to have from a leader of your football team.