Jalen Ramsey Traded to Steelers: Full Details and What It Means for Both Teams

By Jason Bolton July 01, 2025 04:14

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a major splash this offseason by acquiring star cornerback Jalen Ramsey from the Miami Dolphins in a blockbuster trade that also sends tight end Jonnu Smith and a 2027 seventh-round pick to Pittsburgh, while Miami receives five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. This high-profile swap, confirmed on June 30, 2025, reshapes both teams’ defenses and signals their differing strategic directions heading into the new NFL season.

Ramsey, 30, is widely regarded as one of the premier shutdown corners in the league. Originally drafted fifth overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2016, he earned seven Pro Bowl selections and three first-team All-Pro honors before helping the Los Angeles Rams win Super Bowl LVI in 2021. After joining Miami in 2023, Ramsey posted solid numbers despite injury setbacks last season, recording 60 tackles, one sack, and two interceptions in 37 games. His contract, which runs through 2028 following a three-year, $72 million extension signed in 2024, makes him the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback. As part of the trade, Ramsey received a $1.5 million raise, boosting his 2025 salary to $26.6 million, with the Steelers absorbing all but $7 million of his contract this year.

For the Steelers, Ramsey’s arrival is a clear statement of intent. After signing four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers, Pittsburgh is aggressively building a roster to contend in what is expected to be Rodgers’ final season. Ramsey bolsters an already promising secondary featuring young talents like Joey Porter Jr. and Be Be Bishop Jr., alongside veteran Darius Slay. Steelers president Omar Khan emphasized the impact, saying, “Adding a player of Jalen’s caliber elevates our defense and gives us a true lockdown corner to complement our young core.” The inclusion of Jonnu Smith, who recently agreed to a one-year extension, adds depth to the tight end position, further strengthening the team’s offensive options.

Meanwhile, the Dolphins’ decision to trade Ramsey reflects a strategic pivot. General Manager Chris Grier explained that after extensive discussions with Ramsey and his representatives, the team concluded the trade was in everyone’s best interest. “This move gives us the best opportunity to win not only this year but also in the long run,” Grier said. Miami is banking on the return of Minkah Fitzpatrick, a former first-round pick and five-time Pro Bowler, to anchor their secondary. Fitzpatrick’s familiarity with the Dolphins’ system and his leadership qualities are expected to help stabilize the defense. The trade also provides Miami with a valuable fifth-round pick in 2027, aiding their ongoing roster rebuild.

Financially, the trade benefits Miami by saving nearly $10 million in cap space for 2025, despite incurring some dead money charges over the next few years. Pittsburgh, conversely, takes on a significant salary commitment but is willing to do so to maximize their championship window with Rodgers and Ramsey leading the way.

In summary, the Ramsey trade is a win-win that reflects contrasting team philosophies. The Steelers are doubling down on immediate contention by adding an elite cornerback and offensive weapon, while the Dolphins are repositioning for sustainable success by acquiring a top-tier safety and draft capital. As the 2025 NFL season approaches, both franchises will look to leverage these moves to push deeper into the playoffs, with Ramsey’s presence in Pittsburgh expected to be a game-changer in the AFC North race.