Jalen Ramsey Faces Uncertain Future with Miami Dolphins Amid Trade Talks

Ramsey’s Contractual Outlook

Jalen Ramsey, currently contracted through the 2028 season, might have taken his final snap with the Miami Dolphins. The team and the former All-Pro cornerback have mutually decided to seek trade opportunities, signaling his potential departure by 2025, as reported by NFL Media. This development comes as a surprise, given Ramsey recently inked a three-year, $72.3 million extension last September, making him the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL. However, following a season where both his performance waned and the Dolphins finished with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs, it appears both sides are ready to part ways.

2024 Season Performance

Ramsey showcased his durability during the 2024 season, appearing in all 17 games for Miami. Despite his consistent presence, the seven-time Pro Bowler, now 30, experienced a drop in productivity by his standards, allowing opposing quarterbacks an 83.2 passer rating and a 62% completion rate. Notably, 2024 also marked the first season since his rookie year that Ramsey did not secure a Pro Bowl spot.

Financial and Trade Implications

Trading Ramsey could pose challenges due to his hefty contract. He is guaranteed a $24.3 million salary in 2025, with a cap number hovering around $16.6 million. If a trade occurs before June 1, the Dolphins could free up around $8.5 million in cap space for 2025. Post-June 1, this figure would rise to $9.9 million.

Ramsey’s Journey with the Dolphins

Ramsey joined the Dolphins in 2023 following a trade with the Los Angeles Rams. Initially, his start was rocky due to a meniscus injury that delayed his debut. Nevertheless, once he took the field, Ramsey excelled, boasting a 51.1 passer rating in coverage over 10 games in 2023.

Ramsey’s NFL Journey

Entering the NFL as the fifth overall pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2016, Ramsey played four years with the team before transferring to the Rams in October 2019. During his tenure in Los Angeles, Ramsey was instrumental in the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI victory during the 2021 season.

Potential New Destinations

As Ramsey contemplates his next move, potential teams poised as landing spots include the Atlanta Falcons, Cincinnati Bengals, and Detroit Lions. Atlanta holds about $10 million in cap space, Cincinnati is eager to bolster its secondary, and Detroit, with ample cap space, could gain significantly from Ramsey’s expertise.