Jalen Ramsey and the Dolphins continue to seek trade options that would send the star cornerback out of Miami. With the draft representing an opportunity for the two sides to finalize a divorce, we’re getting more details on how we even got here in the first place.
According to Armando Salguero of Outkick, issues between the two sides aren’t connected to finances. Instead, a potential Ramsey exit is because the player doesn’t “see eye to eye” with head coach Mike McDaniel. In fact, Salguero goes as far as describing the relationship between the two as “irreparably broken,” and he says it’s hard to envision the cornerback playing again for head coach.
This actually isn’t the first time we’ve heard of potential issues in the locker room, specifically on the defensive side of the ball. Tony Pauline of Sportskeeda.com reported earlier today that McDaniel has “rubbed a lot of the veterans the wrong way” following the coach’s strong start to his career. Many of those defensive players would prefer to play elsewhere vs. sticking in Miami, and Pauline hints that’s a big reason why the organization has struggled to re-sign players on that side of the ball (and recruit replacements).
The Dolphins have told Ramsey that they’ll work with him to find a favorable landing spot, and this is probably a big reason why Salguero notes that the player has “respect” for GM Chris Grier. The Rams have already been mentioned as a landing spot for their former All-Pro cornerback, and there’s a chance more teams emerge if a trade isn’t consummated during the draft.
It’s been assumed the two sides were seeking a separation after Ramsey refused a pay cut, although Salguero says that’s not the reason for the inevitable trade. Further, the front office seemingly placated the player when they handed him more guaranteed money — via a September 2024 extension (three years, $72.3MM) — soon after Patrick Surtain reset the cornerback market.
The current issue with a Ramsey trade is timing, as a pre-June 1 trade would cost the Dolphins $25.2MM in dead money. The draft could be the best opportunity for the organization to get an offer built on draft picks, but they may just prefer to wait for financial flexibility.
Either way, it appears there’s no chance of Ramsey reversing course and returning to Miami next season.