Three weeks ago, the Miami Dolphins and All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey mutually agreed to part ways, initiating trade discussions with several NFL teams. The Los Angeles Rams have emerged as a prominent suitor, considering a reunion with Ramsey, who previously played a pivotal role in their 2021 Super Bowl victory. Rams head coach Sean McVay acknowledged ongoing conversations, highlighting Ramsey’s talent and their continued relationship.
Ramsey has expressed interest in playing for teams located in Miami, Tennessee, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, aligning with the Rams’ interest. However, his substantial contract, which includes \$25.1 million guaranteed for the 2025 season, poses a significant hurdle. The Dolphins have already paid a \$4 million roster bonus, leaving any acquiring team responsible for the remaining \$21.1 million. Miami’s reluctance to absorb any portion of this salary has complicated trade negotiations.
Financial considerations are central to the timing of a potential trade. A pre-June 1 trade would result in a \$25.2 million dead cap hit for the Dolphins, whereas a post-June 1 transaction would reduce this figure to \$6.7 million, offering \$9.9 million in cap savings. Consequently, a trade after June 1 appears more feasible for Miami.
The Rams, with approximately \$17.6 million in cap space, could create additional room by releasing underperforming players, such as cornerback Derion Kendrick, who is recovering from an ACL injury. Despite not selecting a cornerback in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Rams’ interest in bolstering their secondary remains evident, making a reunion with Ramsey a strategic consideration.
While no trade has been finalized, the mutual interest between Ramsey and the Rams, combined with financial strategies favoring a post-June 1 deal, suggests that a reunion is a plausible.
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