The Miami Dolphins have traded cornerback Jalen Ramsey to the Pittsburgh Steelers following two seasons at the team’s South Beach location, as confirmed on Monday. Ramsey announced the trade himself via a video on X.
In return, the Dolphins received five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Tight end Jonnu Smith was also part of the deal going to the Steelers, along with a 2027 seventh-round draft pick, while the Dolphins secured a fifth-round pick in 2027.
The Steelers officially reviewed the trade details Monday, describing the process as demanding for the players involved. The trade followed the Dolphins’ public announcement that they were open to trading Ramsey, a veteran with ten years in the league.
After a disappointing end to their season, Dolphins General Manager Chris Greer stated that this move was aimed at strengthening the team’s chances of success not only this year but in the future as well. Greer explained that the decision came after weeks of internal discussions and conversations with Ramsey and his representative, emphasizing that the decision was not rushed and that Ramsey did not request a trade.
Miami finished their second season with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs for the first time in three years. Ramsey’s stats included 60 tackles, sacks, and two interceptions for seven yards.
There were initial rumors linking Ramsey back to the Los Angeles Rams, where he previously played. Rams coach Sean McVay showed interest in reuniting with Ramsey, but the Steelers were quicker to act. According to Rapoport, the Steelers and Rams were the main contenders for Ramsey’s services.
This acquisition strengthens an already strong Steelers defense by adding an experienced veteran who is expected to help with quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ potential final NFL season. The Steelers will rely heavily on this defensive boost to make a run in 2025. Ramsey was scheduled to sign a three-year, $72 million extension in 2024, paying him $24.2 million this season, but due to the trade, his salary will increase by $1.5 million to $26.6 million in 2025.
Ramsey’s contract did not hinder the trade since his $252.13 million cap hit has been reduced by $18.468 million since June 1, and the Steelers will retain control over him until 2028.
Minkah Fitzpatrick, 28, returns to Miami after six seasons away. Originally a first-round draft pick of the Dolphins in 2018, Fitzpatrick played only half a season before being traded to the Steelers during the 2019 season.
Following a promising rookie year, Fitzpatrick was moved to Nickelback under coach Brian Flores and was unhappy with his role, prompting his trade to Pittsburgh, where he flourished and earned his first All-Pro honor. Over the next five seasons with the Steelers, Fitzpatrick earned two more All-Pro selections and four Pro Bowl appearances between 2020 and 2024.
Tight end Jonnu Smith will also join the Steelers as part of the trade. Smith played one strong season in Miami with 88 catches for 884 yards and eight touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. Despite his achievements, Smith was considered a trade candidate due to his contract situation and offseason holdout with the Dolphins. Following the trade, Smith signed a one-year $12 million contract extension.
Fan Take: This blockbuster trade shakes up the NFL landscape by swapping two elite defensive stars, each having a significant impact on their new teams. For fans, it means an exciting new chapter of fierce rivalry and top-tier defensive play, which could influence playoff races and shape the future of both franchises.
