As the NFL’s mandatory minicamp period continues, one of the more notable absences belongs to Jalen Ramsey — and it’s not because of injury or holdout. The Miami Dolphins have excused him from activities as they work toward what appears to be an inevitable trade.
Ramsey, who inked a three-year, $72.3 million extension just last year, has become a casualty of Miami’s shifting defensive priorities. With the Dolphins looking to move on from his hefty contract, several teams have shown interest, but none appear as financially capable or strategically aligned as the Las Vegas Raiders.
According to CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin, Las Vegas could be a strong contender in the race to land the seven-time Pro Bowl cornerback, potentially offering a 2026 fifth-round pick in return.
Why Is Miami Looking to Move On?
Jalen Ramsey remains one of the most talented cornerbacks in the league — when he’s on the field.
But at 30 years old and coming off a season where injuries limited his impact, the Dolphins are pivoting toward a younger, more cost-effective approach to their secondary.
Miami GM Chris Grier has been upfront about wanting to explore trade options for Ramsey, though the financial logistics remain tricky. Any team taking on his deal must absorb a significant portion of the remaining salary — something only a few clubs can afford.
That’s where the Raiders come in.
How Can the Raiders Afford It?
Las Vegas currently sits with over $36 million in cap space, according to Over the Cap, making them one of the few teams in the league with the flexibility to take on Ramsey’s contract without major restructuring.
While the Raiders aren’t necessarily viewed as contenders right now, head coach Pete Carroll has made it clear that building a physical, aggressive defense is a top priority. Ramsey fits that vision perfectly.
Carroll, known for his affinity for elite defensive talent during his time at USC and with the Seattle Seahawks, would get a chance to reunite with a player who still brings elite coverage skills and leadership to the back end.
Potential Trade Scenarios
A possible deal between the Dolphins and Raiders could look like this:
- Dolphins receive: A mid-to-late round draft pick (likely 2026)
- Raiders receive: Jalen Ramsey
- Cap relief: Dolphins reduce financial burden; Raiders restructure or prorate Ramsey’s deal to spread out cap hit
It’s unlikely that Miami will get full value in return given Ramsey’s age and recent injury history, but a trade partner willing to take on salary makes this feasible.
What Ramsey Brings to Las Vegas
Even in his early 30s, Ramsey remains a game-changing defender. His ability to shut down opposing No. 1 receivers, combined with his leadership and competitive fire, makes him a natural fit for a Raiders team trying to build identity under Carroll.
Las Vegas struggled defensively last season, finishing near the bottom of the league in several key categories. Adding a player like Ramsey instantly elevates the unit and gives young corners like Nate Hobbs someone to learn from.
There’s also the intangible factor — Ramsey brings intensity, swagger, and a winning mindset that could help shift the culture in the locker room.
Could a Rams Reunion Happen Instead?
Of course, the Los Angeles Rams remain a name tied to Ramsey, especially considering his successful tenure there before being traded to Miami in 2019.
Rams head coach Sean McVay hasn’t ruled out a reunion, and it would make sense from a football perspective. But unless the Rams are willing to offer significantly more draft capital than Las Vegas, a deal with the Raiders seems more likely.
Los Angeles isn’t in a great cap position compared to Las Vegas, and any deal would require creative restructuring or cap casualties — something they may not be ready to do yet.
Final Thoughts: A Logical Fit
If the Raiders pull the trigger on acquiring Jalen Ramsey, it won’t be about instant gratification — it’ll be about building a foundation for the future.
Yes, Ramsey is aging and expensive, but his presence could help elevate a struggling defense and provide mentorship for younger players. For Las Vegas, this could be the kind of splash move that signals real progress under new leadership.
For Miami, it’s a necessary step in moving forward with a fresh direction.
Only time will tell if the deal gets done, but for now, the Raiders appear to be the most logical landing spot for a star whose legacy isn’t finished just yet.
