Potential Destinations for Jalen Ramsey Following the NFL Draft

With the NFL draft completed and mandatory minicamps scheduled to begin next month, teams continue to explore options for augmenting their rosters ahead of the 2025 season. Roster gaps remain, injuries loom, and player transactions, including trades and signings, are expected to occur throughout the summer. Among the players who could be on the move is Miami Dolphins cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who has been a topic of trade discussions for a significant portion of the offseason without a deal finalized as of yet.
NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe recently reported that while no trade is currently imminent, June 1 marks an important date for the future of Ramsey and the Dolphins. After this date, the remaining dead money on Ramsey's contract can be distributed over the 2025 and 2026 seasons rather than being absorbed entirely in the current season. A pre-June 1 trade would result in an additional $12.6 million cost against Miami's 2025 salary cap, while a post-June 1 trade would actually save the team $5.9 million. As this critical date approaches, teams are expected to evaluate potential interest in Ramsey.
It is essential to note that the Dolphins are not seeking a trade due to Ramsey's performance on the field. The seven-time Pro Bowler started all 17 games last season, allowing an opposing passer rating of 83.2 in coverage, although he did not earn Pro Bowl honors. According to Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, the potential separation between the player and team stems from the dynamics of their relationship. Weaver mentioned, 'He played very good ball for us, but relationships are hard. Both sides have mutually chosen to go the other way.' Financial considerations also play a significant role; while Ramsey's base salary for this season is a modest $1.3 million, his compensation is set to rise considerably in subsequent years.
As the Dolphins look to part ways with the 30-year-old player, teams that believe their championship window is open may view Ramsey as a valuable addition. The Atlanta Falcons, for instance, aim to leverage second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr. in a playoff push while having invested two first-round picks on defensive players, linebacker Jalon Walker and pass rusher James Pearce Jr. Notably, Falcons head coach Raheem Morris previously served as Ramsey's defensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Rams.
Other teams that might consider acquiring Ramsey include the Baltimore Ravens, who ended the 2024 season ranked 31st in passing yards allowed. Despite this ranking being somewhat misleading, as Baltimore's defense improved significantly toward the end of the season under first-year coordinator Zach Orr, the addition of Ramsey could provide depth and experience. Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta has a history of acquiring veteran players if he believes it would enhance the team's chances of contending for a championship, as evidenced by his previous signings of established stars.
Furthermore, the Cincinnati Bengals could be another team actively pursuing Ramsey, not only to bolster their roster but also to prevent a divisional rival from acquiring his services. With Joe Burrow at quarterback, Cincinnati's Super Bowl aspirations hinge on enhancing their defense, which struggled last season. The Bengals ranked poorly in both points and yards allowed and are under pressure to improve heading into 2025, especially following the recent change in defensive coordinator.
The Los Angeles Rams continue to navigate their roster following the trade of Ramsey to Miami and uncertainty surrounding quarterback Matthew Stafford's future. Stafford, who turned 37 in February, has a revised contract in place, but the Rams are keen to maximize his remaining playing days. The organization has shifted its strategic approach toward the draft in recent years, yet there may be an opportunity to re-sign Ramsey, potentially addressing a need for improved cornerback performance.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, despite their recent success, might also emerge as a contender for Ramsey's services. Their performance against opposing passing attacks has been less than stellar, ranking 29th in passing yards allowed last season. Given the competitive landscape of their division and the need to bolster their defense, acquiring an experienced player like Ramsey could provide the Buccaneers with the edge necessary for postseason advancement.
Finally, the Washington Commanders, who made significant strides last season by transforming from a struggling team into an NFC Championship contender, may also look to add a player of Ramsey's caliber. The Commanders' impressive turnaround was sparked by head coach Dan Quinn and the performance of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. However, to maintain competitive momentum, especially with a challenging schedule ahead, acquiring a durable and skilled cornerback like Ramsey could be critical.








