Dolphins and Star Cornerback Part Ways in Surprise Offseason Shake-up
In a move few saw coming, the Miami Dolphins and star cornerback Jalen Ramsey have mutually agreed to part ways after just two seasons together, ending a short but eventful stint in South Florida. Despite battling injuries throughout his time in aqua and orange, Ramsey remained a key figure on the field and in the locker room, helping to anchor Miami’s secondary during their 2023 playoff push. Ramsey, a six-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro, was acquired in a headline-grabbing trade from the Los Angeles Rams in March 2023. Though he missed the start of the season with a knee injury, his return brought stability and veteran leadership to the Dolphins’ defense. Now, at 30, Ramsey is expected to draw significant attention in the trade market or free agency despite the hefty $24 million cap hit tied to his 2025 contract.
General manager Chris Grier confirmed the news in a press conference, clarifying that the move was not prompted by a trade request or financial dispute from Ramsey. Rather, after weeks of internal discussions and conversations with the cornerback’s camp, the franchise felt it was time to move on. “These decisions aren't done quickly, and they're not taken lightly,” Grier said. “At the end of the day, Jalen did not ask for a trade. We felt it was best for both the Miami Dolphins and for Jalen to move forward.”
Whether a deal will materialize before the upcoming NFL Draft remains to be seen, but Miami’s cornerback depth will face a serious test without Ramsey. The Dolphins are likely to lean on Kader Kohou, who has shown versatility playing both inside and outside, as well as recent free agent signing Artie Burns and developing talents Ethan Bonner, Storm Duck, and Jason Maitre. The franchise is also hoping for a leap forward from 2023 second-round pick Cam Smith, who saw limited action in his rookie season but remains a focal point for the team’s future plans. “Cam Smith needs to come through,” Grier stressed. “He's got to stay healthy and be on the field. He knows what's expected because we can't hold his hand and wait for him anymore.”
Despite the move, Grier pushed back on the idea that Miami is entering a rebuild. With key pieces like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Tua Tagovailoa still in place, the Dolphins are aiming to remain competitive in 2025 and beyond. “Our goal is to win this year and keep winning for sustained success in the future,” Grier emphasized. Ramsey’s departure marks the end of a chapter that began with the Dolphins sending a third-round pick and tight end, Hunter Long, to the Rams in exchange for the star defensive back. Ramsey quickly made his presence felt on the field and earned Pro Bowl honors despite missing seven games in his first season with Miami. The Dolphins’ decision to move on is just the latest twist in an offseason full of change and recalibration for the franchise as they prepare for the 2025 campaign.
