As the NFL draft concludes and mandatory minicamps approach next month, teams are still actively looking to enhance their rosters for the 2025 season. There remain existing gaps within rosters, unexpected injuries could arise, and player movements through trades or signings are anticipated to extend well into the summer months. Among the players who may be valuable in the trade market is Miami Dolphins cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who has been the focus of trade discussions throughout the offseason, although he has not yet been moved.

According to NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe, while there are no imminent trade agreements in place, June 1 is a crucial date for potential transactions involving Ramsey. After this date, the remaining dead money on Ramsey's contract can be distributed over the 2025 and 2026 seasons, rather than solely impacting the current season's salary cap. Specifically, trading him before June 1 would impose a $12.6 million penalty on the Dolphins' 2025 cap, while a trade after that date would yield a $5.9 million savings. This pivotal timeframe prompts a closer look at which teams could be interested in acquiring Ramsey post-draft and the rationale behind their potential moves.

It should be emphasized that the Dolphins' willingness to part with Ramsey is not due to his decline in performance. While the seven-time Pro Bowler did not receive all-star honors last season, he started all 17 games and allowed an opposing passer rating of only 83.2 during coverage. Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver commented on the decision, suggesting that the issue lies within the player-team relationship rather than Ramsey's on-field productivity. Weaver noted that both parties have mutually agreed to pursue separate paths for the future.

Contractual considerations are also at play. Ramsey's base salary stands at a modest $1.3 million for the current season; however, this figure will rise significantly to $10 million in 2026 and 2027, before escalating to $21.1 million in 2028. As Miami prepares to move on from the 30-year-old defensive back, it's essential to recognize that he still possesses the ability to contribute to a franchise with aspirations of contention in the near term. The Atlanta Falcons emerge as a possible destination, as they aim to leverage second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr. to secure playoff success in 2025. The Falcons have made investments in their defense over the draft, selecting linebacker Jalon Walker and pass-rusher James Pearce Jr. with early picks, and Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine highlighted cornerback as a primary need for Atlanta after the draft. Furthermore, Falcons head coach Raheem Morris has a previous working relationship with Ramsey, having coached him during his tenure as the Los Angeles Rams' defensive coordinator.

The Baltimore Ravens are another team that may find Ramsey to be a worthwhile investment. After finishing the 2024 season ranked 31st in passing yards allowed—an indication that may be slightly misleading—the Ravens demonstrated a defensive resurgence toward the season's end under coordinator Zach Orr. Despite having brought in Chidobe Awuzie during free agency, Baltimore has made moves in the draft to bolster their cornerback depth but could still benefit from Ramsey's experience. The Ravens have been in pursuit of catching the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl race and would greatly benefit from a dependable cornerback core as they approach postseason play. General manager Eric DeCosta has been known to favor acquiring seasoned veterans who can contribute immediately, making Ramsey a fitting target given his background. Additionally, the coaching connection between Weaver and Orr may facilitate Ramsey’s adaptation to Baltimore's defensive scheme.

The Cincinnati Bengals, who are keen on maximizing their Super Bowl window while quarterback Joe Burrow remains healthy, could also be interested in Ramsey. Despite Burrow's two postseason appearances since entering the NFL in 2020, injuries have curtailed his seasons twice, axing any potential playoff runs. Despite Burrow starting all 17 games last season, the Bengals failed to qualify for the playoffs, mostly due to their defensive struggles, with a ranking of 25th in both yards and points allowed. Following this disappointing showing, the Bengals opted for a coaching change, removing defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo and appointing Al Golden from Notre Dame. However, the Bengals have made few moves to address their cornerback situation via the draft or free agency, which leaves an opportunity for acquiring an influential player like Ramsey if they wish to turn their defensive narrative around in 2025.

As the Rams look to maximize quarterback Matthew Stafford's remaining time in the league, they have not dismissed the idea of reacquiring Ramsey, who was traded to Miami two years ago. Following Stafford's contract adjustments this off-season, the Rams are keen on capitalizing on Stafford's abilities, especially as he approaches the twilight of his career at 37 years old. Although general manager Les Snead has recently shifted towards a draft-centric approach rather than acquiring aging stars—a strategy that previously delivered them a championship in 2021—there remains the possibility that Ramsey could return to Los Angeles. Head coach Sean McVay has maintained regular communication with Ramsey since his departure, hinting at ongoing dialogues that may lead to his rejoining the team. The Rams, who struggled with their secondary last season, finishing 26th in net yards per pass attempt allowed, would undoubtedly gain from Ramsey's skill set in bolstering their defensive performance.

In an unexpected turn of events, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have also entered the fray as a potential landing spot for Ramsey. Despite having signed Kindle Vildor and using early draft picks on cornerbacks Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish, the Buccaneers allowed the third-most passing yards last season. With aspirations for a deeper playoff run, particularly after four consecutive NFC South titles, Tampa recognizes the need for strong defensive capabilities to withstand fierce competition from prominent quarterbacks throughout the conference. Although Ramsey plays cornerback, he has also expressed a willingness to experiment with safety later in his career, providing additional value to any team that considers acquiring him as they pursue a deep postseason campaign.

In a similar position, the Washington Commanders may also pursue a trade for Ramsey. Having added cornerback help through both free agency and the draft, Washington also dealt for Marshon Lattimore mid-season. However, Lattimore's contributions were limited due to injuries, prompting the team to continue their search for veteran depth. Following a notable turn-around season under head coach Dan Quinn, which led the Commanders to the NFC Championship Game, the franchise is keen to sustain their newfound competitive edge. With Washington facing high expectations and a challenging schedule for the 2025 season, the addition of an accomplished player like Ramsey could provide the team with the necessary depth, particularly after concluding the previous season with only seven interceptions. Ramsey's career total of 24 interceptions positions him as a premier defensive target as teams prepare for the upcoming season.