Steelers' Potential Trade Price For All-Pro CB Jalen Ramsey Revealed

The Pittsburgh Steelers finally got clarity at the quarterback position when Aaron Rodgers revealed he would be joining the team for the 2025 season. With that major domino falling into place, attention has quickly shifted to the rest of the roster. Steelers General Manager Omar Khan has been rumored to be working quietly behind the scenes, exploring potential moves to strengthen the team with Rodgers’ arrival.

While the wide receiver room remains Pittsburgh’s most pressing concern, some around the league have speculated that Khan could turn his attention to the secondary. The Steelers have quietly been evaluating the defensive back market, and one name that continues to generate buzz is Jalen Ramsey. The three-time All-Pro cornerback has reportedly been available via trade throughout the offseason, as the Miami Dolphins look to clear cap space and retool their defense.

If the Steelers wanted Ramsey, they could make it happen. Khan has been aggressive in past deals, and adding a veteran playmaker like Ramsey would instantly upgrade the secondary. Based on recent trades for top-tier defensive backs, Steeler Nation’s best estimate is that a trade package could involve a fourth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, with the Dolphins possibly eating some of Ramsey’s salary to facilitate the deal.

The Steelers could likely pull off a trade for Ramsey by offering a 2026 fourth-round pick or a late Day 3 selection. The key factor is whether the Dolphins are willing to absorb a portion of Ramsey’s remaining salary. If Miami refuses to take on any of the financial burden, the trade compensation would likely drop even further—possibly to a 2026 sixth or seventh-round pick.

If the Dolphins hope to attract stronger offers, they’ll need to show some willingness to cover part of Ramsey’s contract. He remains under team control for multiple years, but his significant salary could scare off potential suitors unwilling to take on the financial risk without relief. That price tag alone may be the biggest obstacle in any deal involving the veteran cornerback.

One thing working in the Steelers’ favor is that the league-wide demand for cornerbacks is lower than it has been in recent years. That reduced market gives Khan leverage, especially if he’s patient. The most optimistic outcome for Pittsburgh would be landing Ramsey for a 2026 fourth-round pick—a cost that shouldn’t strain their draft resources, particularly if they’re serious about upgrading the secondary ahead of the 2025 season.

A lot of debate has been going back and forth on whether the Steelers truly need extra help at the cornerback position. Some Steelers insiders believe they do need a player like Ramsey, while others argue it does not make much sense. However, if the price is right and the Dolphins are willing to absorb part of his contract, it could be a smart move for a team like Pittsburgh.

Steelers Might Have Legit Reason To Pursue Jalen Ramsey

Ramsey is not the same cornerback he was in his prime, but during the 2024 season, Pro Football Focus ranked him 16th out of 222 graded cornerbacks with a 76.9 overall grade. For comparison, Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. ranked 161st out of 222 with a 55.0 grade. That contrast puts things into perspective and shows that the Steelers could definitely use a reliable veteran like Ramsey.

The team already brought in Darius Slay on a one-year, $10 million deal. Slay had a strong season with the Philadelphia Eagles, but at 34 years old, there are valid concerns about whether he can still perform at a high level. 

With Beanie Bishop and Donte Kent competing for the nickelback position, the Steelers do have internal options. Still, Ramsey could be the kind of addition that helps solidify the secondary and keeps Pittsburgh in win-now mode as Rodgers prepares to lead a playoff push in 2025.

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