Dolphins To Trade Jalen Ramsey To Steelers For Minkah Fitzpatrick

The Jalen Ramsey trade saga is coming to an end. The All-Pro corner is on the move, but not out west as many predicted.

The Dolphins have reached agreement with the Steelers on a Ramsey swap, Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network report. Pittsburgh recently emerged as the most recent team likely to be eliminated from the list of landing spots in this case, but a trade has nevertheless been worked out. Ramsey will receive a $1.5MM bump in pay as part of this deal.

Adding an unexpected layer to this blockbuster deal, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is headed the other way in the swap. Fitzpatrick began his career in Miami, and the former first-rounder was dealt to the Steelers in 2019. He will now return to his original team for 2025.

[RELATED: Steelers To Acquire, Extend TE Jonnu Smith]

Rapoport notes the Rams and Steelers were the two main Ramsey suitors, with Los Angeles long representing the expected destination in this situation. He adds Pittsburgh was out of the running until very recently, but that has obviously changed rather quickly. Ramsey himself has confirmed that he is headed to the Steelers, which will be his fourth career team.

The three-time All-Pro spent the past two seasons in Miami, rebounding from his injury-shortened 2023 campaign to play a full slate last year. Ramsey appeared set to remain in South Beach for the foreseeable future when he agreed to a lucrative extension last offseason, but a falling out with head coach Mike McDaniel led to the mutual decision a parting of ways would be best. Ramsey was on the trade block through the spring, but the list of suitors publicly expressing interest proved to be rather short.

Rams head coach Sean McVay made it clear the team was open to a Ramsey reunion (after he helped the team win the Super Bowl in 2021). Finances were a sticking point in this case, however. The seven-time Pro Bowler has already received a $4MM roster bonus from Miami, but his outstanding $21MM-plus in compensation for the year is guaranteed. Ramsey is on the books for another three yeas after the coming campaign, but an adjustment to his pact has been expected upon arrival with an acquiring team.

Despite a limited market emerging, the Dolphins remained steadfast in their desire to move on from Ramsey. The 30-year-old has proven to be one of the league’s top corners over the course of his career, although age will become a concern during his Steelers tenure. Nonetheless, Pittsburgh’s CB depth chart now includes another standout veteran after the team added Darius Slay in free agency. Those two will join returnee Joey Porter Jrin a secondary which will look much different in 2025.

Fitzpatrick only played 18 games during his first Dolphins tenure. Expectations were high for the former No. 11 pick, but his departure came about as part of the team’s maneuvering in advance of the 2020 draft (which brought about the selection of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa). Upon arrival in Pittsburgh, Fitzpatrick shone and earned first-team All-Pro honors. He remained productive through the following years.

However, things took an unwanted turn following the 2022 campaign (one in which Fitzpatrick recorded a league-leading six interceptions). Over the past two seasons, the Alabama product has been limited to just one pick and seven pass deflections while operating in different areas on the field. A five-time Pro Bowler, Fitzpatrick will aim to return to his previous form during his second Dolphins stint. His original team has a notable vacancy at the cornerback spot, but he will provide starting play at the safety position.

Two years remain on Fitzpatrick’s contract, and he is set to carry cap charges of $22.36MM and $24.46MM as things stand. With none of his remaining base salaries guaranteed, the Steelers will create $15.5MM in savings while generating a dead money charge of only $6.86MM. Those figures will help absorb the incoming Ramsey pact.

Pittsburgh has made a number of aggressive moves this offseason, deviating from standard operating procedure. The additions of Aaron Rodgers and D.K Metcalf were aimed at upgrading on offense, a unit which has been further augmented with today’s blockbuster. Ramsey will aim to further fuel the team’s Super Bowl aspirations for what will likely be a one-and-done Rodgers season. The Dolphins, meanwhile, will move forward in 2025 with a much different core in terms of veterans on both sides of the ball.

Can the Steelers reclaim the AFC North crown in 2025?

As the 2025 NFL season kicks off, optimism is building in Pittsburgh. The Steelers enter the year determined to climb back to the top of the AFC North, a division that promises to be as competitive as ever. With fierce rivals in the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, and Cleveland Browns, the battle for divisional supremacy could come down to the final weeks of play.

Here’s what Steelers fans should watch for as the Black and Gold pursue another division title.

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A new chapter for the Steelers offense

The Steelers have shaken up their offense significantly in the offseason. Notably, they traded star receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys on May 7, 2025. To fill the void, Pittsburgh acquired D.K. Metcalf in a trade from the Seattle Seahawks and signed veteran Robert Woods, beginning the reshaping of the receiving corps.

Veteran QB Aaron Rodgers brings experience as the new offensive pivot. The return of Mason Rudolph also improves the quarterback group over that of the past couple of seasons for the Steelers

With Najee Harris departed during free agency, Jaylen Warren steps up as the lead back. The offensive line also returns key pieces like Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick, and moved Broderick Jones to left tackle, promising improved protection.

How well this group can execute in key moments, especially in tight divisional games, could determine whether the Steelers rise above the pack.

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Defense ready to set the tone

The Steelers’ defense remains the heart of the team. T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith lead as a top-tier pass rushing duo that aims to disrupt opposing quarterbacks all season long.

Longtime veteran Cameron Heyward will have help from Yahya Black, a rookie will big-time potential, as well as Keeanu Benton and Logan Lee.

With Minkah Fitzpatrick, DeShon Elliott, and Joey Porter Jr. patrolling the secondary with a mix of veteran and young talent, Pittsburgh hopes to create more takeaways and limit big plays.

Additions in the linebacker corps, like Jack Sawyer, should provide a boost to Peyton Wilson and Patrick Queen as depth will be critical as the season wears on.

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Special teams will also be a point of emphasis, particularly with the NFL’s kickoff rules entering a second season. Field position will play a big role in determining game outcomes in 2025, adding extra importance to special teams execution on kickoffs and punts.

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Key matchups on the schedule

Several games stand out as pivotal for the Steelers’ 2025 campaign:

Week 4 vs. Minnesota (in Dublin, Ireland) – An exciting international clash that puts the Steelers on a global stage. This unique setting will test the team’s focus and ability to perform away from home early in the season.

Week 7 at Cincinnati – A prime-time Thursday Night Football battle against a division rival known for its explosive offense. This game could shape the race for the AFC North crown.

Week 14 at Baltimore – A critical late-season showdown in Baltimore, where playoff positioning and division pride are on the line in this heated rivalry.

Week 18 vs. Baltimore – The regular-season finale back at Acrisure Stadium, often a winner-takes-all scenario for the division title and postseason seeding.

These key games, along with a tough overall schedule, will test the Steelers’ resilience, depth, and ability to perform in clutch moments.

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How fans are following the action

In today’s NFL, fans engage with the game in more ways than ever before. From breaking down film on social media to tracking advanced stats on mobile devices, technology has transformed the game-day experience. Betting apps have also become popular among fans, offering live odds, player props, and in-game wagers that add an extra layer of excitement, especially during critical moments like a key third-down conversion or a red-zone opportunity.

While the focus remains on the action on the field, many Steelers fans use these apps to stay connected to the game and follow the ebb and flow in real time, whether they’re at Acrisure Stadium or watching from home.

Of course, Pennsylvania law requires wagers to be placed through licensed operators, and fans are encouraged to use these apps responsibly as part of their game-day traditions.

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The road ahead

The path to the AFC North title won’t be easy, but the Steelers have the pieces in place to contend. With an ascending offense, a proven defense, and passionate fans ready to support them every step of the way, Pittsburgh’s pursuit of the crown is one of the top storylines to watch this season.

If the Steelers can stay healthy, protect the football and capitalize in key moments, they could once again be celebrating as division champions come January. One thing’s for certain: Steelers Nation will be watching and cheering every snap.

Can the Steelers reclaim the AFC North crown in 2025? appeared first on Steel City Underground.

Joey Porter Jr. contract projection: A 2026 deal for the cornerback could be the play


NFL: Dallas Cowboys at Pittsburgh Steelers
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He can’t sign a new deal this offseason, but in February 2026, we could see a Joey Porter Jr. contract.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have primarily looked to build through the draft over the last few seasons, nabbing quite a number of key starters across the board.

Their 2023 NFL Draft was especially loaded with talent, as the Steelers paired first-round tackle Broderick Jones with cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (second round), defensive tackle Keeanu Benton (second round), and edge rusher Nick Herbig (fourth round).

While that class is not yet extension-eligible, it’s safe to assume the Steelers would like a few of those players to stick around for the next few seasons.

With Pittsburgh looking to contend with Aaron Rodgers at the helm, it’ll be a crucial year for the third-year pros, with one of them looking to bounce back in 2025: Porter Jr.

After a promising rookie campaign, the cornerback struggled with penalties this past season, raising questions as to whether he could reach his ceiling of being a top cornerback in the NFL.

He’ll have less on his shoulders with Darius Slay coming to town on a one-year, $10 million deal, but Porter will look to prove himself to secure that long-term extension in 2026.

Should he have a productive 2025 season, what could that rookie extension look like next offseason?

Baseline numbers for a Joey Porter Jr. extension

Young cornerbacks have taken over the league with massive rookie extensions over the past few offseasons, with Houston Texans defensive back Derek Stingley Jr. leading the way.

He earned a three-year, $90 million deal this offseason that included a whopping $89 million guaranteed, making him the sixth-highest-paid defensive player in the NFL, regardless of position.

Other extensions include Jaycee Horn (four years, $100 million), Patrick Surtain II (four years, $96 million), A.J. Terrell (four years, $81 million), and Tyson Campbell (four years, $76.5 million).

Honestly, I’m not sure that Porter will even reach the money that Campbell earned unless he takes a massive step forward in his third year. Looking at baselines, there are a couple of other extensions that could set the floor and ceiling for the former second-rounder.

On the floor side, Chicago’s Kyler Gordon and Green Bay’s Nate Hobbs make sense. Gordon earned a three-year, $40 million deal this offseason, while Hobbs signed a four-year, $48 million deal in free agency.

The $12-13 million range seems like a healthy floor for Porter with a solid season, given how the salary cap continues to increase and the value of the cornerback position.

On the other side, Christian Benford, Deommodore Lenoir, and Paulsen Adebo seem like good ceilings if Porter plays well in 2025.

All three ranged around $17-18 million per year on their rookie extensions, while getting at least $35 million in guaranteed money.

Projecting a Joey Porter Jr. deal

It’s tough to project, but given the rise of the salary cap and the expected improvements for the cornerback, I’d place an extension closer to the ceiling numbers listed above.

Porter doesn’t have a fifth-year option as a second-round pick, so next offseason would be a logical time for an extension with just one year left on his rookie deal.

The cornerback will be entering his age-25 season this year, so he may look for a four-year deal to get him back on the market for another big contract when the time comes.

Looking at projections, a four-year deal worth around $72 million would make sense, placing him in that upper echelon of breakout cornerbacks, with the guarantee structure being important.

The Steelers normally are very careful with their guarantees, but have handed out large sums of money to key players (see T.J. Watt) in the past. I’d expect Porter to get two years of guaranteed money, in addition to his signing bonus, at signing.

Of course, the bonus structure may change exactly how that money is allocated, but around $40 million in guarantees would make sense for a four-year deal.

Projection: 4 years, $72.4 million, $40 million guarantees

Steelers Likely Out On CB Jalen Ramsey

Speculation continues as the Dolphins work to trade veteran cornerback Jalen Ramsey. In an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network claimed that he doesn’t believe Pittsburgh is a trade destination for the three-time All-Pro.

Since 2022, the Steelers secondary has been uncharacteristically average, while last year saw them become even less characteristically porous, as they finished the season having given up the eighth-most passing yards in the NFL. Safeties Minkah Fitzpatrick and DeShon Elliott are reliable veterans in the defensive backfield, but the team’s cornerbacks had a disappointing showing in 2024.

The Steelers exchanged veterans in free agency, watching Donte Jackson walk while signing Darius Slay to a one-year, $10MM deal. Slay instantly becomes the best cornerback on the roster, though at 34 years old, there’s always a chance that this is the year his effectiveness begins to dip. Slay should start across from Joey Porter Jr., who saw a bit of decline in his sophomore campaign. Porter allowed completions on nearly 63 percent of the passes in which he was the primary defender, and Pro Football Focus (subscription required) graded him as the 99th-best cornerback in the league out of 116 graded players.

The next two cornerbacks on the depth chart are James Pierre and Cory Trice, who both graded out better than Porter in 2024, but neither player played in more that 16 percent of the team’s defensive snaps last year. While Beanie Bishop and Cameron Sutton are also available, they play almost exclusively in the slot for Pittsburgh. Plus, PFF wasn’t too kind to them either.

With this all in mind, it would make perfect sense for the Steelers to inquire about acquiring Ramsey, like they did with Fitzpatrick six years ago. But Rapoport made it clear to McAfee and company that that’s not a likely scenario. Instead, he continues to push the narrative that a return to the Rams makes “the most sense” for Ramsey. Rapoport posits that the money involved in this deal is the thing that has consistently been keeping it from getting done.

Pittsburgh, though, will move forward with its current group. The team will hope to see developed improvement from young impact players like Porter and Bishop, while also hoping that this year’s veteran, Slay, can help foster more success in the position room.

Aaron Rodgers Cites D.K. Metcalf As A Reason For Joining Steelers; FA Tyler Boyd Would Welcome Pittsbugh Deal

Although he may not have had much by way of realistic landing spots in 2025, new Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers still had to think highly enough of the situation in Pittsburgh to join the team and put off retirement for one more year. Having previously cited head coach Mike Tomlin as a factor in his decision, Rodgers also pointed to another new Steeler, trade acquisition D.K. Metcalf.

[RELATED: Rodgers Expects To Retire After 2025 Season]

Rodgers, 41, said Metcalf is a “big part of the reason” he joined the Steelers (via ESPN’s Brooke Pryor). He went on to say Metcalf is “a really solid human being.”

The Steelers’ decision to trade former WR1 George Pickens after acquiring and extending Metcalf is in keeping with their modus operandi, as Pickens is entering his walk year and Pittsburgh does not make a habit of rostering two wideouts on top-dollar deals. That said, the club was also wary of pairing Pickens and his history of maturity issues with the notoriously prickly Rodgers, a concern that may have helped grease the trade wheels.

By contrast, the throwing sessions that Rodgers and Metcalf had this offseason – before Rodgers officially joined the team – apparently helped sell the future Hall of Fame signal-caller on his new top target. That said, losing a talent like Pickens is a big blow to Pittsburgh’s offense, so the team is still reportedly seeking a veteran wideout despite having added Robert Woods in late April.

Pro Bowl stalwarts like Keenan Allen and Amari Cooper remain on the market and thus have been connected to Pittsburgh, at least speculatively. While finances are likely not a major factor in the Steelers’ calculus at this point since they have roughly $19MM in cap room, a less expensive option like Tyler Boyd may also make sense.

Boyd, 30, spent the first eight years of his career as a key part of the Bengals’ passing attack and topped 1,000 receiving yards in the 2018 and 2019 seasons. Even in his last season in Cincinnati in 2023, Boyd saw 98 targets. However, the team’s decision to use the franchise tag on Tee Higgins and the specter of a record-setting extension for Ja’Marr Chase led Boyd out of the Queen City last offseason.

The Pittsburgh native and University of Pittsburgh product was interested in joining his hometown Steelers in 2024, and the interest was reportedly mutual. But the parties could not find common ground on contract terms, so Boyd ultimately inked a one-year deal with the Titans.

As Tennessee slogged through a forgettable year with second-year passer Will Levis and veteran Mason Rudolph (now back with Pittsburgh) at the controls, Boyd put up an underwhelming stat line. Excluding the 2017 campaign, in which he appeared in just 10 games, Boyd tied or set career lows with 57 targets, 39 catches, 390 receiving yards, and a 10.0 yards-per-catch rate. He also failed to find the endzone for the first time in his career.

Of course, he had done much better with different quarterback situations, and he represents an intriguing buy-low candidate for teams in need of receiving help. For the second year in a row, he is hoping to head home to western Pennsylvania.

At this youth camp on Saturday, Boyd was asked by Pittsburgh Sports Now if he would like to sign with the Steelers.

“Absolutely,” he said (via Bryan DeArdo of CBS Sports; h/t Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk). “You know, all my family is here. I’d be able to have the majority of them be able to support me.”

Like many players, Boyd has a fondness for Tomlin.

“I’m real cool with Tomlin,” he added. “He’s always been a good person. … When I was at Pitt, we had a good relationship. After practice, I’d walk over there, talk to [Antonio Brown] and those guys, talk to Tomlin, and he’d just pick at different things, where I could get better and get some guidance. I think we had a great friendship.”

There have been no public reports of interest in Boyd’s services in 2025. It remains to be seen if the Steelers will reciprocate his interest this time around.