The deal, as outlined by Randall, would send Olave and a 2025 sixth-round pick to New England in exchange for Milton, a 2025 third-round pick, and a 2025 fifth-rounder.
“The Saints need to plan for the future at quarterback, and the Patriots need to give Drake Maye a No. 1 receiver,” Randall wrote, framing the trade as one that would address key needs for both teams.
Sports Illustrated predicts this INSANE trade proposal between the Patriots and the Saints this offseason:
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) March 27, 2025
Saints receive:
QB Joe Milton, 2025 3rd-round pick (69) and a 2025 5th-round pick (144)
Patriots receive:
WR Chris Olave, 2025 6th-round pick (184)
Imagine Maye and… pic.twitter.com/qkvfFym1v5
From the Patriots’ side, the logic is sound. Milton, despite a promising Week 18 start in which he completed 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards and accounted for two touchdowns against a resting Buffalo squad, is firmly behind rookie franchise quarterback Drake Maye.
Turning a developmental backup into a potential No. 1 receiver is an easy call for a team eager to maximize Maye’s rookie contract window. Olave, entering his fourth season with over 2,500 receiving yards to his name, would give New England an explosive weapon—especially after adding Stefon Diggs in free agency.
For the Saints, however, the deal is more complicated. While Milton has intriguing physical tools, he’s only appeared in one meaningful game, and New Orleans already has another project quarterback in Spencer Rattler.
Who says no?
— 617 Swaps (@617swaps) March 11, 2025
-#Patriots receive Chris Olave#Saints receive Joe Milton, pick 77 pic.twitter.com/itDxutyJK2
Giving up Olave—arguably the team’s most promising young player—would signal a dramatic pivot, especially with the 24-year-old receiver under team control and just starting to reach his prime.
Critics have pointed out the gamble, but Randall argues the Saints must ask themselves a simple question: “Would you rather pay over $100 million for a receiver with a lengthy concussion history, or flip him for draft capital and a cheap, tantalizing young QB?”
Photo Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
