The NFL offseason is always full of surprises, but few trades have sparked as much debate as the recent blockbuster deal between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Miami Dolphins. The Steelers acquired star cornerback Jalen Ramsey in exchange for a package that included a 2024 second-round pick and a conditional 2025 mid-round selection. While many analysts praised Pittsburgh for landing a proven playmaker, one former All-Pro cornerback has gone against the grain, claiming the Dolphins got the short end of the stick—and he’s not holding back.
“It doesn’t make sense,” said the former defensive back, who wished to remain anonymous but has multiple Pro Bowl nods and a Super Bowl ring to his name. “The Steelers just fleeced Miami. You’re talking about a guy who, when healthy, is still a top-five corner in this league. And they gave him up for what? A second-rounder and some late-round flier? That’s insane.”
The trade, which sent shockwaves through the league, was initially viewed as a savvy move by the Dolphins to clear cap space while acquiring draft capital. Miami has been in a financial crunch, and Ramsey’s hefty contract—along with his age (29)—made him a logical candidate to be moved. But according to the former All-Pro, the compensation was far too light for a player of Ramsey’s caliber.
“Look, I get that Miami is trying to get younger and cheaper, but this is Jalen Ramsey we’re talking about,” he said. “This is a guy who can lock down half the field, a guy who changes entire game plans. You don’t just give that away for pennies. The Steelers are getting a Hall of Fame-level talent for basically nothing.”
Ramsey, a six-time Pro Bowler and three-time First-Team All-Pro, is coming off an injury-shortened 2023 season but has been one of the most dominant defensive backs of his era. His ability to shut down elite receivers and his versatility in both man and zone coverage make him a rare commodity. The Steelers, who have been searching for a true No. 1 corner since the days of Ike Taylor, now have a defensive backfield anchored by Ramsey and rising star Joey Porter Jr.—a duo that could terrorize opposing quarterbacks for years to come.
“Pittsburgh’s defense was already good, but now? They’re scary,” the former cornerback said. “You pair Ramsey with Porter, Minkah Fitzpatrick at safety, and that pass rush? Good luck throwing on them. Meanwhile, Miami is left hoping that second-round pick turns into something. It’s a gamble, and not one I would’ve taken.”
The Dolphins, on the other hand, are banking on their ability to develop young talent. General Manager Chris Grier has a strong track record in the draft, but even he has faced criticism for this move. Some argue that Miami could have held out for a better deal, especially given Ramsey’s resume and the fact that several contending teams would have likely been willing to pay more for his services.
“If you’re trading a guy like Ramsey, you better be getting a first-round pick at minimum,” the former All-Pro said. “And even then, you better be sure about it. A second-rounder might turn into a solid starter, but the hit rate on those picks isn’t high enough to justify losing a guy who can single-handedly change your defense.”
Another factor in the trade was Ramsey’s contract. He’s due $20 million in 2024, a figure the Dolphins were clearly uncomfortable with given their cap constraints. But the Steelers, who have been strategic with their spending, saw an opportunity to add an elite talent without sacrificing their long-term flexibility.
“Pittsburgh is always smart with their money,” the former corner said. “They don’t overpay for flashy free agents, but when a guy like Ramsey becomes available at a discount, they pounce. That’s why they’re always competitive. Meanwhile, Miami is stuck hoping they can find the next Ramsey in the draft, which is easier said than done.”
The trade also raises questions about the Dolphins’ long-term vision. After years of building around quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and head coach Mike McDaniel, they appeared to be on the verge of contention. But trading away a key piece of their defense suggests they may be shifting priorities—or worse, panicking.
“This feels like a move you make when you’re rebuilding, not when you’re trying to win a Super Bowl,” the former player said. “Miami was right there. They had the pieces. Now they’ve got a hole in their secondary and a draft pick that might not pan out. Meanwhile, the Steelers just got better overnight. It’s a head-scratcher.”
As for Ramsey, he now joins a Steelers team with championship aspirations. Pittsburgh’s defense, already one of the league’s best, just added a lockdown corner who can match up against the likes of Ja’Marr Chase, Stefon Diggs, and Odell Beckham Jr. in the AFC. If Ramsey returns to form, this trade could go down as one of the most lopsided in recent memory.
“The rich get richer,” the former All-Pro said. “Pittsburgh knows how to win, and they just stole one of the best corners in the game. Miami better hope that second-round pick turns into a superstar, because right now, this looks like a steal for the Steelers.”
Only time will tell who truly won this trade, but one thing is certain: the Steelers are loading up for a deep playoff run, while the Dolphins are taking a risk that could backfire spectacularly. In a league where elite cornerbacks are harder to find than franchise quarterbacks, giving up Jalen Ramsey for anything less than a king’s ransom may go down as a costly mistake.
