Dolphins' cap-clearing trade ditches $84 million veteran to NFC West favorite for much-needed draft capital

The Dolphins fell short of expectations last season, and this offseason hasn’t allowed them much room to improve due to severely limited cap space. As a result, Miami is actively seeking trade partners for some of their more expensive players—particularly veterans carrying hefty contracts.

One name almost certain to be moved soon is veteran cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who has spent the past couple of seasons in Miami. Ramsey is a seven-time Pro Bowler, but his time with the Dolphins has been less than ideal. Miami has encouraged Ramsey to seek a trade, and that’s exactly what he’s been trying to do.

His expected departure reportedly stems from internal dynamics.

“I talked with their defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver about the situation and his quote kind of [explains] why the Dolphins and Ramsey are here. He said Ramsey has been a great player for us, but relationships are hard and he has chosen to move on,” Cameron Wolfe said.

Strong relationships are vital to a player’s success within a team, but Ramsey apparently lacked that connection in Miami. With an $84 million contract, trading him would provide significant relief to the Dolphins’ cap situation.

Ramsey has been involved in trade talks with several teams, and one intriguing possibility is a reunion with the Los Angeles Rams—the team he won his only Super Bowl with.

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“For assets to send back, the Rams own two first-round picks, their own second, third and fifth-round picks, and multiple picks in the sixth & seventh rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft,” Kyle Crabbs wrote.

Shedding Ramsey’s salary while receiving only draft capital in return would greatly benefit the Dolphins financially, as they wouldn’t have to take on another player’s contract. While moving Ramsey won’t be the only change Miami makes this offseason, getting a strong return for him would mark a positive step in reshaping their roster and cap space.

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