Raiders or Rams? Analyzing the Best Trade Fits for Dolphins’ Star Cornerback Jalen Ramsey

The NFL rumor mill is churning, and one name consistently popping up is Miami Dolphins cornerback Jalen Ramsey. After a somewhat turbulent tenure in South Beach, it appears a change of scenery is in the cards for the seven-time Pro Bowler. But where will he land? Two teams frequently mentioned as potential destinations are the Las Vegas Raiders and the Los Angeles Rams. Both squads have compelling reasons to pursue Ramsey, but which one makes the most sense?

As the 2025 season approaches, let’s dive into the potential fits for Ramsey, analyzing the needs, cap situations, and overall team trajectories of both the Raiders and the Rams.

The Case for the Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders, under the new leadership of head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Spytek, are undergoing a significant rebuild. After a disappointing 4-win season in 2024, the team has made several moves to revamp the roster, particularly on offense, acquiring quarterback Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks. However, the defense remains a work in progress, especially the cornerback position.

Raiders’ Cornerback Conundrum:

The Raiders’ need for cornerback help is well-documented. After losing Nate Hobbs in free agency and moving on from Jack Jones, the team is left with a young and largely unproven group. Jakorian Bennett showed promise before an injury derailed his season, and the Raiders drafted Darien Porter, but relying solely on these players to contend in a tough AFC West is a risky proposition.

According to Sports Illustrated, the Raiders’ pass defense ranked 17th in pass defense success rate (53.9%) and allowed a 96.5 opponent passer rating (24th) in 2024. Adding a veteran like Rasul Douglas has been suggested, but a player of Ramsey’s caliber would be a significant upgrade.

Why Ramsey Fits in Las Vegas:

Immediate Impact: Ramsey would instantly become the Raiders’ top cornerback, providing a much-needed upgrade in coverage and leadership in the secondary.
Pairing with Maxx Crosby: Ramsey’s presence would complement star pass rusher Maxx Crosby, making it more difficult for opposing quarterbacks to exploit the Raiders’ defense.
Carroll’s Defensive Mindset: Pete Carroll’s defensive philosophy, known for its emphasis on toughness and versatility, aligns well with Ramsey’s playing style.
Cap Space: The Raiders possess ample cap space to absorb Ramsey’s contract, making a trade financially feasible.

The Downsides:

Age and Injury History: Ramsey will turn 31 in October and has dealt with knee injuries in the past.
Contract Commitment: Acquiring Ramsey would mean taking on a significant financial commitment through 2028, with a cap hit of over $36 million in future years.
Team Trajectory: The Raiders are still in the early stages of a rebuild, and investing heavily in a veteran player might not align with their long-term vision.

The Case for the Los Angeles Rams

The Rams, fresh off a surprising playoff appearance in 2024, are looking to capitalize on their Super Bowl window with quarterback Matthew Stafford and head coach Sean McVay. While the offense has been bolstered by the addition of Davante Adams, the defense, particularly the cornerback position, remains a concern.

Rams’ Cornerback Concerns:

The Rams have struggled to find a consistent replacement for Ramsey since trading him to the Dolphins in 2023. The current cornerback group, led by veterans Darious Williams and Ahkello Witherspoon, lacks a true shutdown presence.

According to Yahoo Sports, the Rams’ secondary was arguably the least successful part of the team in 2024, and the lack of upgrades is concerning. Pro Football Focus’ Max Chadwick notes that “None of the cornerbacks on their roster posted a 65.0-plus PFF overall grade last season.”

Why Ramsey Fits in Los Angeles:

Familiarity: Ramsey spent four seasons with the Rams, winning a Super Bowl in 2022, and knows the team’s defensive scheme.
Championship Contender: The Rams are in a Super Bowl window, and adding Ramsey would significantly improve their chances of competing for a title.
McVay’s Endorsement: Coach Sean McVay has not ruled out a Ramsey trade, indicating a willingness to bring him back to Los Angeles.

The Downsides:

Cap Constraints: The Rams’ cap situation is tighter than the Raiders’, making it more challenging to absorb Ramsey’s contract.
Trade Compensation: The Dolphins are likely to demand a significant return for Ramsey, which could deplete the Rams’ draft capital.
Long-Term Outlook: The Rams’ focus is on the present, and investing heavily in a veteran player could limit their flexibility in the future.

The Verdict

Both the Raiders and the Rams have compelling reasons to pursue Jalen Ramsey. The Raiders need a top cornerback to anchor their defense and provide leadership, while the Rams are looking for a missing piece to bolster their Super Bowl aspirations.

Ultimately, the best fit for Ramsey depends on the Dolphins’ priorities and the willingness of each team to meet their demands.

If the Dolphins are primarily focused on acquiring draft capital and shedding salary, the Raiders might be the more likely destination. Their ample cap space and willingness to take on Ramsey’s contract could make them the most attractive trade partner.
If the Dolphins are seeking a player who can contribute immediately, the Rams might have the edge. Their Super Bowl window and Ramsey’s familiarity with the team could make them a more appealing option.

As the offseason progresses, the Jalen Ramsey saga will continue to unfold. Whether he ends up in the Silver and Black or returns to the City of Angels, one thing is certain: his next team will be getting a talented and impactful player who can elevate their defense to new heights.