In a major deal finalized June 30, 2025 the Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Steelers executed a multi-player swap:To Pittsburgh. All‑Pro CB Jalen Ramsey
TE Jonnu Smith
2027 seventh‑round pick To Miami**:
* Pro Bowl safety **Minkah Fitzpatrick**
* 2027 fifth‑round pick ([ESPN.com][1], [NFL.com][2])
Both players are expected to report without holdouts: Pittsburgh gave Ramsey a **\$1.5 M raise**, boosting his 2025 salary to **\$26.6 M**; likewise, Smith received a one‑year, **\$12 M extension** ([NFL.com][2]).
Why the Trade?
* **Pittsburgh** is signaling a **Super Bowl or bust** mentality. Already loaded with Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, T.J. Watt, and Darius Slay, the team is pushing hard—to maximize Rodgers’ likely final NFL season ([Talksport][3]).
* **Miami** rebounded well, reclaiming safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, a former draft pick and defensive stalwart in Pittsburgh ([NFL.com][2]). Player Fit & Impact Jalen Ramsey (CB)
* 7× Pro Bowler, 3× First‑Team All‑Pro.
* Known for versatility—can cover outside, in the slot, or even play safety ([NFL.com][4]).
* Veteran leader with 24 career interceptions and 108 pass defenses ([NFL.com][2]). Minkah Fitzpatrick (S)
* 5× Pro Bowler, 3× First‑Team All‑Pro.
* Rejoins Miami, where his NFL journey began, bringing 20 career interceptions ([ESPN.com][1]).
* A respected locker room presence and playmaking force.
Jonnu Smith (TE)
* Produced 88 catches, 884 yards, and eight TDs last year.
* Reunites with OC Arthur Smith—who coached and traded for him during their Atlanta/Tennessee stint—adding offensive firepower ([NFL.com][2]).
Locker Room Reaction
Veteran DL **Cam Heyward** described it as “bittersweet”—thrilled to add Ramsey’s talent, yet saddened to lose a close teammate in Fitzpatrick. He emphasized Ramsey’s versatility and intensity ([NFLTradeRumors.co][5]).
Cap & Contract Notes
* Pittsburgh’s cap hit for Ramsey is manageable: approximately **\$19.5 M** this year, thanks to Dolphins covering part of his bonus and cap restructuring ([SI][6]).
* The team retains over **\$25 M in cap space**, giving flexibility to extend T.J. Watt and address other roster needs ([SI][6]).
What It Means
* The Steelers are wagering big on **”now or never.”** With Rodgers likely in his final campaign, they’re assembling an elite roster. The addition of Ramsey further strengthens a defense aiming to finally break a long playoff streak ([Talksport][3]).
* For the Dolphins, Fitzpatrick brings stability and leadership to a young secondary, offering strong value for a future pick and giving Ramsey playtime elsewhere.
Watch: Reactions & Analysis
[Steelers & Dolphins React to Ramsey Trade](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZYcPDuibwc&utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Final Take
Pittsburgh boldly reshaped its roster around Aaron Rodgers, upgrading both offense and defense. The acquisition of Ramsey and Smith underscores a “all‑in” mindset. Miami, by contrast, refocused on defensive solidity with Fitzpatrick’s return. This trade marks one of the most significant mid‑offseason shifts of 2025—and sets the tone for both teams’ seasons ahead.
