Last week, the Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Steelers executed one of the biggest trades in recent NFL history. They exchanged All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey for Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. The trade is part of an ongoing effort by both teams to reset their rosters and focus on filling immediate needs, particularly in the secondary. The ruling has sparked robust debate. Will these teams be done with their moves, or are more changes yet to come?
Jalen Ramsey certainly made a strong first impression with the Dolphins. He picked off three passes in his first three games after recovering from a knee injury sustained in training camp. Dolphins’ management knew things had to change. They felt that separating from Ramsey was critical in creating a new culture within the organization. Grier was adamant that Ramsey did not demand a trade. He assured that the parting was mutually agreed upon and amicable as well.
The Rise and Fall of Jalen Ramsey in Miami
In his first season with the Dolphins, Ramsey wasted no time making waves. He displayed his tenacity and talent to rise from the field, earning a starting position with a powerful presence. He primarily played on the outside as a cornerback. In this position, he’s done an outstanding job throughout his career. The Dolphins had their worst luck all season when it came to injuries in their secondary. As talented as Ramsey is, Grier admitted the team’s goal was to find two starting cornerbacks.
Ramsey’s versatility allowed him to play various roles, including the “star” position, which combines responsibilities of both cornerback and safety. However, noted that Wright’s adaptability has even prompted conversations about a move to a full-time safety position. This conversation couldn’t come at a better time as he nears the twilight phase of his career. Not only would it prolong the effects of his declining athleticism, but it would test his football IQ.
“At the end of the day, Jalen did not ask for a trade,” – Louis-Jacques
The Dolphins’ decision to trade Ramsey was not indicative of dissatisfaction with his performance but rather a strategic choice aimed at changing the team’s internal dynamics. The management believed that moving on from Ramsey would serve both their interests and his, allowing him to pursue opportunities elsewhere while enabling Miami to fill critical gaps in their lineup.
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ Defensive Strategy
On the flip side of the trade, the Pittsburgh Steelers were excited to get Ramsey to add to their loaded defensive backfield. The Steelers shouldn’t need to emphasize it unless the Steelers are being especially negligent in addressing their desperation at outside cornerback, they’ve been looking for a fix. They could get a little help from veteran Darius Slay Jr. By adding Ramsey, whichever team he joins will immediately upgrade to an elite caliber talent that can turn around a unit’s fortunes overnight.
Ramsey will bring that experience—including his own Super Bowl victory with the Los Angeles Rams—along with him to Pittsburgh. His presence should help stabilize a young secondary. He will be a resource and positive presence for younger players, and he will help raise the overall quality of play. Given the Steelers’ defensive scheme with a great emphasis on defending both the pass and the run, Ramsey would fit in perfectly.
Both teams are hungry to improve their playoff positioning. As you’ll see below, this could end up being one of the most impactful trades — again, not just for this current season, but potentially for seasons to come. The Dolphins need to retool their offense to suit this absence now. On the other hand, the Steelers have to be hopeful that adding Ramsey will shore up their defense as they head into a stretch of important match ups.
Upcoming Challenges for Both Teams
Both teams continue to experience challenges. The Dolphins still need to find a long-term answer opposite Xavien Howard. As Grier pointed out, their needs remain unchanged since two weeks ago, highlighting that more attention is needed to create a formidable defense.
Ramsey as well as Fitzpatrick will each receive an opportunity to face off against their old teams. So mark your calendars for Week 15 when they face off once more! This championship battle is proving to be a nailbiter! Both players will be highly motivated to show their old clubs what they gave up.
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