After the Snap: Is Jalen Ramsey on the Move? Potential Landing Spots for the All-Pro Cornerback in 2025
In the ever-volatile world of the NFL, seismic shifts can occur in the blink of an eye. Just ask Miami Dolphins fans, who, after witnessing Jalen Ramsey’s stellar play, are now facing the possibility of the All-Pro cornerback donning a different uniform in 2025. With Dolphins General Manager Chris Grier announcing a mutual agreement to explore trade options, the rumor mill is churning, and speculation is rampant about where Ramsey might land.
Ramsey’s potential availability has sent shockwaves across the league, prompting teams to evaluate their cornerback situations and assess whether they can accommodate his talent and contract. After all, this is a player who, despite a “down year” by his own lofty standards in 2024, still commands respect and can instantly elevate a defense. He finished the 2024 season with 60 total tackles, two interceptions, and one sack.
The Business Side of Football: Ramsey’s Contract
Before diving into potential destinations, it’s crucial to understand the financial implications of acquiring Ramsey. He has a guaranteed salary of $24.3 million in 2025 and a cap number of roughly $16.6 million. A trade before June 1st would free up $8.5 million in cap space for the Dolphins, while a post-June 1st trade would create $9.9 million in relief. Any acquiring team would pick up Ramsey’s $1.255 million salary, $865k in workout and per-game roster bonuses, and a fully-guaranteed $19 million option bonus due on August 31.
This financial commitment will undoubtedly narrow the field of potential suitors to teams with ample cap space and a strong belief in Ramsey’s ability to return to his All-Pro form.
Destination 1: Los Angeles Chargers – A Reunion in the Golden State?
The Los Angeles Chargers emerge as an intriguing possibility. Their cornerbacks exceeded expectations in 2024, particularly fifth-round rookie Tarheeb Still. However, with playoff aspirations and a division boasting elite quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Russell Wilson, the Chargers need a player who can consistently shut down top receivers.
Adding fuel to the fire is Ramsey’s connection with Chargers safety Derwin James. The two were roommates at Florida State, and that existing relationship could ease Ramsey’s integration into the Chargers’ locker room and defensive scheme. With Joey Bosa’s departure, the Chargers’ secondary may need to cover receivers longer in 2025, making Ramsey an even more valuable asset.
Destination 2: Las Vegas Raiders – A Silver and Black Savior?
The Las Vegas Raiders’ defense struggled mightily against the pass in 2024, surrendering the sixth-most passing touchdowns in the league (29). The departure of Nate Hobbs, Jack Jones, and Tre’Von Moehrig in free agency further exacerbates their need for cornerback help.
While the Raiders have added Eric Stokes, Lonnie Johnson, and Jeremy Chinn, none are renowned for their pass coverage abilities. Although extending Maxx Crosby was crucial, the pass rush can only do so much. With over $43 million in cap space, the Raiders are well-positioned to make a splash and acquire Ramsey, instantly solidifying their secondary.
Destination 3: Detroit Lions – Adding a Champion to the Pride?
The Detroit Lions are firmly in their Super Bowl window and could see Ramsey as the missing piece to their championship puzzle. Their secondary allowed 244 passing yards per game during the regular season, the third-highest in the NFL.
While they signed D.J. Reed in free agency and drafted Terrion Arnold in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, adding Ramsey would provide invaluable experience and bolster their depth. With the second-highest amount of cap space, approximately $42.3 million, the Lions can afford to make a serious run at acquiring the All-Pro cornerback.
Other Potential Suitors
While the Chargers, Raiders, and Lions appear to be the frontrunners, several other teams could enter the Ramsey sweepstakes:
- Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals have a significant need at cornerback and could offer a higher draft pick in 2026 to entice the Dolphins.
- Green Bay Packers: With speculation surrounding Jaire Alexander’s future in Green Bay, the Packers could explore a trade for Ramsey.
- Washington Commanders: After trading for Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil, the Commanders could add another star-level veteran in Ramsey.
The Rams Return?
A potential curveball in this saga could be a reunion with the Los Angeles Rams. While they traded Ramsey to the Dolphins in 2023, the Rams have a projected $51.74 million in 2025 salary cap space and could view Ramsey as the missing piece to return to Super Bowl contention.
What Does the Future Hold?
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Jalen Ramsey trade rumors will only intensify. Several factors will determine his ultimate destination, including his willingness to restructure his contract, the Dolphins’ asking price, and the aggressiveness of potential suitors.
One thing is certain: Jalen Ramsey remains one of the premier cornerbacks in the NFL, and his next team will be getting a player who can transform their defense and bring a championship mentality to their locker room.