Jalen Ramsey Trade Watch: Are the Cowboys or Raiders Ready to Make a Blockbuster Move?

By Jason Bolton June 19, 2025 09:38

As the 2025 NFL offseason unfolds, the future of All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey remains one of the league’s most intriguing storylines. After a mutual decision with the Miami Dolphins to explore trade options, speculation is rife about which team might land the elite defender. Among the frontrunners are the Dallas Cowboys and Las Vegas Raiders, both franchises eager to bolster their secondary with a proven shutdown corner. But are either ready to pull the trigger on a blockbuster deal?

Ramsey, 30, signed a lucrative three-year, $91.8 million extension with Miami before the 2024 season, carrying a hefty $24 million guaranteed this year. While his 2025 cap hit of $16.7 million is manageable for some teams, the escalating salary in subsequent seasons exceeding $25 million annually poses a significant financial hurdle. This contract complexity has been a major stumbling block in trade talks, as teams weigh Ramsey’s elite talent against the salary cap implications.

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay, whose team Ramsey helped lead to a Super Bowl victory in 2021, has openly expressed admiration for the cornerback and remains “open-minded” about reacquiring him. However, McVay acknowledged “obstacles” in completing a trade, citing the financial and strategic challenges involved. The Rams currently have about $21.9 million in cap space, enough to absorb Ramsey’s 2025 cap hit, but the long-term cost and compensation required complicate matters.

The Dallas Cowboys, seeking to reinforce a secondary that has struggled against elite wide receivers, have been linked to Ramsey in trade rumors. With a defense anchored by stars like Micah Parsons, adding Ramsey would provide a formidable perimeter lockdown presence. The Cowboys’ willingness to part with draft capital and absorb Ramsey’s contract remains uncertain, but the potential fit is enticing given their Super Bowl aspirations.

Similarly, the Las Vegas Raiders have shown interest in upgrading their cornerback position and could view Ramsey as a transformative addition. The Raiders’ front office is reportedly exploring all avenues to improve defensively, and acquiring a player of Ramsey’s caliber would send a strong message. Yet, the financial commitment and the draft assets required remain significant considerations.

Other teams, including the Washington Commanders, Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions, and Philadelphia Eagles, have also expressed interest, underscoring Ramsey’s status as one of the league’s most coveted defenders. However, the Dolphins’ preference to maximize return and manage salary cap relief means any trade will demand substantial compensation.

Ramsey’s recent absence from Miami’s mandatory minicamp and his training sessions at UCLA have fueled further speculation about his desire for a fresh start. His elite skill set combining physicality, speed, and football IQ makes him a game-changer capable of altering defensive schemes and elevating a team’s competitiveness.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler highlighted the financial nuance, noting, “After June 1, the Dolphins can save about $10 million on the cap if they trade him, but the $24 million guaranteed money this year is a major holdup.” This timing factor suggests a trade could materialize soon, as teams and the Dolphins navigate the complex salary landscape.

Jalen Ramsey’s trade saga remains fluid, with the Cowboys and Raiders among the most logical suitors given their defensive needs and championship windows. Yet, the financial realities and draft compensation required create a high bar for any deal. As training camps approach, the NFL world watches closely, knowing that Ramsey’s next destination could reshape the balance of power in the league.