Jalen Ramsey’s time with the Miami Dolphins appears to be nearing an end, and while many expect the Los Angeles Rams to be top contenders to reacquire the star cornerback, there are reportedly “obstacles” that could prevent a deal from happening.
So, who else could land Ramsey?
According to Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report, the Arizona Cardinals may emerge as a surprise suitor ahead of the NFL’s trade deadline in November—though a move could happen even sooner.
“The NFC West could be wide open this year, and the up-and-coming Cardinals could be in the thick of it if Kyler Murray and Marvin Harrison Jr. can make a leap together,” Gagnon wrote.
He adds that Arizona’s strong cap space puts them in a position to upgrade their evolving defense.
“That could leave the cap-rich Cards in position to be buyers to improve a still-evolving defense at the deadline, and it would make a lot of sense for them to pursue Ramsey to bolster a secondary that has already lost Sean Murphy-Bunting for the season.”
Although the Dolphins could theoretically hold onto the 30-year-old Pro Bowler, trade talks have reportedly been brewing for a while. With the team falling behind AFC contenders like the Buffalo Bills, Miami may feel pressured to act.
> “Of course, there’s also a chance Ramsey is dealt long before we hit the deadline. In which case, we are still looking at Arizona as a prime potential landing spot,” Gagnon said.
The Cardinals could especially benefit from acquiring Ramsey if second-round rookie Will Johnson isn’t ready to start. The challenge, however, lies in the veteran’s contract — three more years with at least $25 million in annual cap hits.
Still, as Kyler Murray’s career approaches a “now or never” window, the franchise might decide to go all-in to give head coach Jonathan Gannon and Murray a real shot at postseason success.
While nothing is final, signs continue to suggest that GM Chris Grier is working to get the best return possible for Ramsey. If other teams show enough interest, and cap flexibility lines up, a trade could be finalized well before the deadline.