As NFL training camp approaches, speculation around one of the league’s most dynamic defenders is beginning to ignite once again. Cornerback Jalen Ramsey, currently with the Miami Dolphins, is at the center of trade rumors that suggest a potential return to the West Coast, and possibly to the team that helped define his legacy as one of the game’s elite defenders: the Los Angeles Rams.
Jalen Ramsey Trade Rumors Heat Up: Could a Rams Reunion Happen?
GettyESPN insider Adam Schefter is adding fuel to the fire for a potential Jalen Ramsey/Los Angeles Rams trade.
The buzz is heating up once again by ESPN insider Adam Schefter during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.
“I think he would like to go to the West Coast, to Los Angeles. Rams, Chargers, somewhere like that,” Schefter stated. That comment, coupled with reporting from ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler that named the Rams as a team on Ramsey’s “radar,” has fans and analysts on high alert.
A reunion with Sean McVay’s squad, on paper, seems to make sense, especially considering the current state of the Rams’ secondary.
Right now, Los Angeles is set to enter training camp with Darious Williams and Ahkello Witherspoon as their top two cornerbacks. While both are capable veterans, neither possesses the elite playmaking ability or intimidation that Ramsey brings. Reuniting with the seven-time Pro Bowler and three-time First Team All-Pro would immediately elevate the defense.
However, there are real barriers in place. McVay was very transparent when asked about the possibility of bringing Ramsey back, hinting that logistical and financial hurdles stand in the way.
“Definitely don’t want to rule anything out because we’re always open-minded to onboarding and acquiring quality players and people like him if we’re able to do that, but there would be some obstacles that are real that are in place of maybe preventing that from occurring,” McVay said, per Stu Jackson.
Roadblocks Preventing a Potential Ramsey Trade
The most significant obstacle is money. Ramsey is due $21.1 million next season, with $20 million guaranteed. The Rams have roughly $22.5 million in projected cap space in 2025, per Spotrac, leaving them with little room to absorb such a hefty contract unless Miami agrees to cover a portion of the salary.
The Dolphins, though, haven’t shown a willingness to do that. According to Fowler, Miami has been reluctant to take on any of Ramsey’s salary to facilitate a trade.
Another wildcard is the Los Angeles Chargers, who have more cap flexibility (projected $28 million for 2025) but with less need than the Rams. With second-year CBs Tarheeb Still and Cam Hart having terrific rookie campaigns and the team bringing in Donte Jackson, adding a veteran like Ramsey would be a luxury, not a necessity, especially as the Chargers have a dilemma in contract negotiations with star left tackle Rashawn Slater. That leaves the Rams as the more logical landing spot, if the money can be worked out.
The next few weeks will be telling. If Ramsey isn’t dealt before Dolphins training camp begins in July, tensions could escalate. But if Miami shows a willingness to eat part of his salary, and the Rams view this as a necessary move to shore up the secondary, the door is wide open for a blockbuster return.
But for now, it’s a waiting game.
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