New Developments In NFC Could Give Steelers Major Leverage In Potential Trade Talks With Dolphins

The Pittsburgh Steelers may be one or two signings away from having the ability to surprise a lot of people during the 2025 regular season. Now that Aaron Rodgers has officially committed to playing for the organization, another weapon on the offensive end is needed. That acquisition is expected to come in the next month or so, but there also may be a need on defense. Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay are going to man the outside for the unit, but depth is extremely thin at the cornerback position. It's possible that General Manager Omar Khan sees it as necessary to add to the group.

It is easy to quickly point out that an attractive name to watch out for in the cornerback market is Jaire Alexander. His release from the Green Bay Packers immediately made him one of the hottest names in free agency. He has battled with injuries over the last two seasons, but still is only 28 years old. If he can remain healthy, Alexander could be a huge difference-maker for any team looking to add depth in the area.

Unfortunately, Alexander doesn't have much experience playing in the slot, which is something the Steelers need. A lot of the focus in the cornerback market could shift to the former first-round pick, which in turn, could allow certain teams like Pittsburgh to use the situation as leverage with the Miami Dolphins, a franchise that has its own issues with a veteran defender.

It appears as if Alexander will be an easier target for cornerback-needy teams because he is now a free agent, whereas Jalen Ramsey remains on the Dolphins' roster. Any potential deal would require draft compensation, which is something that the Steelers happen to have in 2026, with a projected 12 overall selections. With some organizations potentially being pulled towards Alexander and away from Ramsey, it could create a golden opportunity for Khan to strike.

Miami General Manager Chris Grier has a decision to make regarding Ramsey. The veteran is clearly unhappy and wants to play for a different team in 2025, but it appears as if no one is really biting on whatever bait the Dolphins' front office has out there currently. The release of Alexander only can make things worse, as a much better, and younger, option has emerged.

Recently, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, noted in an article that the release of Alexander will in fact hurt Miami's effort to get a sizable package for Ramsey. This could inevitably lead to him being cut if the Dolphins won't take on some of Ramsey's salary.

"However it plays out, having Alexander on the market gives teams that have expressed interest in Ramsey increased leverage, and another viable option," Florio noted. "If Alexander signs quickly, it will take a potential Ramsey suitor out of the mix. Depending on the number of true Ramsey suitors, that could put the Dolphins in a very tough spot."

For the Steelers, Ramsey is probably a better option based on his experience playing in the slot. While he isn't a slot-dominant player, he has navigated to that role several times throughout his career. If Pittsburgh can get Miami to chew on some of Ramsey's salary without giving up too much draft capital, a deal could make sense for both sides.

Steelers Are A Couple Moves Away From Being True Contenders

The combination of another wide receiver and cornerback in Pittsburgh's locker room could solidify a unit that is looking to shock many in 2025. With the presence of a veteran quarterback, anything is possible, especially if the defense performs well. Time will tell, but it feels as if the Alexander release will make things difficult for the Dolphins. Because of this, Khan may have enough leverage to acquire Ramsey at a relatively cheap price in the near future.

Do you think that the Steelers should try and acquire Ramsey from Miami? Let us know in the comments below!

#SteelerNation