Steelers Land Jalen Ramsey in Blockbuster Deal, Send Fitzpatrick to Dolphins

PITTSBURGH, PA – June 30, 2025 – The Pittsburgh Steelers have executed one of the NFL offseason’s most significant trades, acquiring three-time All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey, tight end Jonnu Smith, and a 2027 seventh-round draft pick from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round pick, both teams confirmed Monday. The trade is pending physicals for all players involved.

Ramsey, 30, arrives in Pittsburgh after two seasons with Miami. As part of the deal, he receives a $1.5 million salary increase for 2025, bringing his total compensation for the season to $26.6 million. Ramsey has four years remaining on the $72.3 million contract extension he signed in 2024. Pittsburgh will pay the bulk of his contract.

The Steelers also add Jonnu Smith, who is expected to sign a one-year, $12 million contract extension, providing additional depth and versatility at tight end. In return, Miami receives Fitzpatrick, who spent five seasons in Pittsburgh after being acquired from the Dolphins in 2019 and established himself as a defensive anchor and leader.

The Steelers’ secondary now features an elite trio with Ramsey joining recent free-agent signing Darius Slay Jr. and incumbent starter Joey Porter Jr., signaling the team’s aggressive push to contend in 2025. Ramsey is the latest in a string of high-profile acquisitions for Pittsburgh, following the signings of quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver DK Metcalf this offseason.

Miami’s decision to move Ramsey follows weeks of speculation and internal deliberation. Dolphins general manager Chris Grier stated that the trade was made with both immediate and long-term goals in mind, emphasizing that the decision was not taken lightly and that Ramsey did not request a trade.

Ramsey confirmed the news on social media, posting “Break my own news! #HereWeGo @steelers,” further fueling excitement among Steelers fans as the team prepares for a pivotal 2025 season with Aaron Rodgers at the helm.

The deal is expected to reshape both franchises’ defensive identities and has sent shockwaves through the NFL, with analysts noting Pittsburgh’s clear intent to compete for a championship this year.