Jalen Ramsey is still a Miami Dolphin as they enter the final phase of their offseason program. GM Chris Grier said they’ve explored trade options for Ramsey but it’s clear any move will happen after June 1 due to salary cap reasons.
The Dolphins are just days away from that date, and while a trade seems inevitable, nothing is set in stone yet.
Why Trading Ramsey Is Easier Said Than Done?
Ramsey’s $21 million guaranteed for 2025 and his age (he turns 31 in October) make him a tough sell for teams looking to get him. Unless the Dolphins are willing to eat some of his salary, the market for Ramsey will be limited.
Chris Grier didn’t rule out Ramsey being on the roster for 2025, but it’s hard to see that happening.
Adding fuel to the fire, defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver’s recent comments seemed to suggest he isn’t banking on having Ramsey back next season. Meanwhile, Ramsey himself has been unusually quiet on social media since posting an Instagram photo of a rotting orange next to a rotten one—a cryptic hint at his feelings about the situation.
Who Could Want Him?
Trading a 30-year-old cornerback with a hefty salary tag isn’t easy, especially when he’s considered high-maintenance and comes with off-field baggage. Still, there are teams that might see value in his talent:
- Los Angeles Rams: Sean McVay has expressed interest in bringing Ramsey back, though logistical hurdles remain.
- Dallas Cowboys: Seen by some as a possible suitor, although local reporters have pushed back on that idea.
- Washington Commanders: A young team looking to build fast — maybe a fit?
- Carolina Panthers: New DC Ejiro Evero worked well with Ramsey in L.A., but Carolina might not be ready to contend yet.
- Philadelphia Eagles: There’s history here, but with Vic Fangio gone and new draft picks taking shape, it seems unlikely.
The bottom line? There’s interest, but not a ton of urgency. And any team acquiring Ramsey would need to know he actually wants to be there — otherwise, it could become a distraction.
What’s the Realistic Value?
Back in 2023, the Dolphins gave up a third-round pick and tight end Hunter Long to acquire Ramsey from the Rams. That trade looked good at the time — especially considering Los Angeles got two first-round picks from Jacksonville for him.
But now, with Ramsey older, more expensive, and coming off a reported “disgruntled” label, his trade value has dropped significantly. The Dolphins would likely be lucky to get back something close to what they gave up — not what the Rams received.
His contract doesn’t help either. He’s owed $24.2 million in 2025, almost all of it guaranteed. That makes it hard for teams to absorb unless Miami is willing to take on part of the salary — something Grier hasn’t ruled out.
What Happens After June 1?
This is the big question. Once we hit June 1, the Dolphins will have more cap flexibility, and the pressure to make a move increases. Expect the rumor mill to heat up again — and for fans to brace themselves for more drama.
There’s still a slim chance Ramsey ends up staying — Grier didn’t completely shut that door — but given everything that’s happened, it feels increasingly unlikely.
Either way, this saga won’t drag on forever. Whether it ends with a trade, a release (unlikely due to guarantees), or a reluctant reunion, we’ll know more soon.