3 realistic landing spots for Jalen Ramsey after possible split with Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins and Jalen Ramsey have come to terms on a potential trade after two years with the team. The six-foot-one cornerback signed a three–year, $72.30 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL last year after a Pro Bowl selection in 2024.

Dolphins general manager Chris Grier reported that Jalen Ramsey hadn’t requested a trade. However, he mentioned that the decision to part ways came after rounds of discussion, noting that it seemed like the best decision for both sides.

Jalen Ramsey started his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2016, where he played for three years, before moving to the Los Angeles Rams. The cornerback, who hails from Tennessee, has been selected for seven Pro Bowls in seven consecutive years from 2017 to 2023. Ramsey, who won a Super Bowl with the Rams, has also been selected as an All-Pro thrice.

In 2021, Jalen Ramsey was instrumental in their low-scoring comeback win over the Cincinnati Bengals, whom they defeated 23-20. Flash forward, he is still a challenge for offensive players. He started all 17 games in 2024 and finished the season with 60 combined tackles, 11 passes defended, two interceptions, and one sack.

San Francisco 49ers

In the offseason, San Francisco 49ers almost a considerable amount of big names in their defense including Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga. Despite losing several key players, the San Francisco 49ers remain a veteran-heavy team aiming to stay competitive. Adding Jalen Ramsey would be a strategic move for a franchise that is not fully rebuilding but still chasing contention.

With Robert Saleh returning as defensive coordinator, Ramsey could serve as a versatile asset in the secondary. His experience and skill set align well with Saleh’s defensive schemes, allowing him to play multiple roles and help neutralize top offensive threats.

San Francisco has an immediate need for impact players at both cornerback and safety. Ramsey’s ability to excel in both positions makes him an ideal fit. His presence would significantly elevate a secondary that struggled with consistency throughout the previous season.

While the 49ers’ outlook for next season remains uncertain, acquiring a high-level defensive back like Ramsey could raise their defensive ceiling.

Tennessee Titans

The Tennessee Titans stand out as a strong potential landing spot for Jalen Ramsey. A return to Nashville would be a natural fit, given Ramsey’s local roots—he was born just outside the city and starred at Brentwood Academy during his high school years.

Jalen Ramsey has already expressed interest in Titans long back. In a 2019 episode of Bussin’ With The Boys, Ramsey expressed he would like to play for his home state.

With a new chapter beginning in Tennessee, likely led by quarterback Cam Ward, adding Ramsey would inject excitement and veteran leadership into the roster. His presence would resonate with local fans. Furthemore, The addition will provide a high-profile boost to a team entering a transitional phase.

The Titans are also well-positioned from a financial and strategic standpoint. They possess both the cap space and draft assets needed to make a move for Ramsey feasible. His arrival would immediately elevate the secondary, filling a major need with one of the league’s premier defensive backs.

Las Vegas Raiders

Remember the earlier mention of the podcast, well, there was one another team Ramsey said he would be interested in: The Las Vegas Raiders. The Raiders emerge as a logical landing spot for Jalen Ramsey, given their urgent need for talent in the secondary.

The Raiders released Jack Jones in early April. Jones, who started 16 games and led the team with three interceptions last season, leaves behind a significant void. Ramsey would not only fill this critical void on the back end but could also receive a potential pay raise through a trade to Las Vegas.

At this stage of his career, joining a player-friendly coach like Pete Carroll could appeal to Ramsey. Carroll, who’s mastermind behind the Legion of Boom defense which won a Super Bowl in 2014, historically leans on defense and a strong defensive unit. Furthermore, Carroll’s reputation for connecting with veterans and maximizing their strengths aligns well with Ramsey’s experience and leadership style.

The Raiders have both the draft capital and cap flexibility to execute a trade that benefits all parties, including Miami. If there’s mutual interest, Las Vegas can structure a deal that works for Ramsey’s contract while reinforcing their defense.

With veteran quarterback Geno Smith on the roster, the Raiders could be more competitive in 2025 than many anticipate. Strengthening the secondary with a proven player like Ramsey would significantly boost their chances in a tightly contested AFC West.