Jalen Ramsey Trade Watch: Are the Dolphins Shopping Their Star Cornerback?

By Jason Bolton June 07, 2025 10:29

The Miami Dolphins’ offseason has been dominated by one of the NFL’s most surprising trade rumors: the potential departure of star cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Despite being one of the league’s premier shutdown corners and signing a three-year, $72 million extension just last September, Ramsey’s future in Miami appears uncertain as the Dolphins reportedly explore trade options.

The Context Behind the Trade Buzz

Jalen Ramsey, a three-time first-team All-Pro and one of the NFL’s most feared defensive backs, was acquired by Miami in 2023 from the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for tight end Hunter Long and a third-round pick. Since then, Ramsey has continued to perform at a high level, recording 60 total tackles and one interception last season. However, sources suggest a fractured relationship between Ramsey and the Dolphins’ coaching staff or management has soured, prompting the team to consider moving on despite his elite talent.

Coach Mike McDaniel has remained tight-lipped on Ramsey’s status, stating simply, “Nothing has changed” when asked about the cornerback’s future, signaling the team’s intent to keep trade talks under wraps until a deal is finalized.

Financial and Contractual Challenges

One of the biggest hurdles in trading Ramsey is his substantial contract. His 2025 salary cap hit stands at $20.2 million, with $4 million already paid as a roster bonus. The Dolphins would likely need to absorb a portion of Ramsey’s guaranteed salary to facilitate a trade. ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler proposed a trade scenario where the Rams would pay $12 million of Ramsey’s salary, easing Miami’s financial burden and making the deal more feasible.

Timing also plays a crucial role. June 1 is a key date for NFL contracts, as trading or releasing Ramsey after that date would allow Miami to spread his dead-cap hit over two seasons, saving the team $5.9 million in 2025 cap space. Trading him before June 1 would cost the Dolphins over $12.5 million in cap space, making a post-June 1 deal more attractive.

Potential Trade Destinations and Returns

Several teams have emerged as potential suitors for Ramsey. The Carolina Panthers have been frequently mentioned as the best fit, offering Miami a fourth-round pick in 2026 in addition to other draft capital. This package would give the Dolphins seven selections in the first four rounds of the 2026 draft, providing valuable assets to rebuild or trade for difference-makers.

The Los Angeles Rams, Ramsey’s former team, are also interested in a reunion, with reports suggesting they could offer late-round draft picks and cover a significant portion of his salary. Other teams like the Arizona Cardinals, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Kansas City Chiefs have been floated as possible landing spots, though no concrete offers have surfaced publicly.

Unfortunately for Miami, the expected trade return may be underwhelming. ESPN projects that the Dolphins will likely receive no better than a fourth-round pick, a disappointing haul considering they gave up a third-round pick and a starting tight end to acquire Ramsey just two years ago.

Ramsey’s Perspective

Jalen Ramsey himself has hinted at a “new chapter” on social media, posting cryptic messages about growth and moving forward. His tweets suggest readiness for change, even as he expressed gratitude for his time in Miami and the fans’ support. Reports indicate Ramsey prefers to be released rather than traded so he can choose his next destination, adding complexity to the Dolphins’ plans.

The Miami Dolphins’ decision to trade Jalen Ramsey underscores the delicate balance between talent, team chemistry, and financial management in the NFL. Despite Ramsey’s elite status, his contract size and reported off-field issues have made him a trade candidate. While the Dolphins may not receive a blockbuster return, the draft capital and salary relief could help reshape their roster. For Ramsey, the next step in his career remains uncertain, but a trade or release seems increasingly likely before the 2025 season kicks off.