Jalen Ramsey’s Future Uncertain: A Rams Reunion on the Horizon?
The NFL rumor mill is churning, and one name consistently surfacing is that of star cornerback Jalen Ramsey. After a brief stint with the Miami Dolphins, the three-time All-Pro is reportedly seeking a trade, opening the door for a potential move to a new team in 2025. While several teams are expected to express interest, one destination stands out: a return to the Los Angeles Rams.
The prospect of Ramsey rejoining the Rams has been a persistent topic of discussion, particularly since reports emerged about the Dolphins’ willingness to trade him. Rams head coach Sean McVay has consistently fueled the speculation with glowing remarks about his former player, publicly praising Ramsey’s talent and character. These endorsements have only intensified the belief that a reunion could be in the works.
McVay’s admiration for Ramsey was recently on display during an interview on SiriusXM Mad Dog Radio. When asked about his opinion of Ramsey, McVay didn’t hesitate to express his high regard. "He is a total stud," McVay declared, emphasizing Ramsey’s continued high level of play. He also revealed that he and Ramsey have maintained close contact since the trade to Miami, highlighting their strong personal relationship. McVay further lauded Ramsey as a "special competitor, great person, great father."
Ramsey’s previous tenure with the Rams was undeniably successful. Acquired via trade before the 2019 NFL trade deadline, he quickly became a cornerstone of the Rams’ defense. In his first two full seasons with the team, Ramsey earned back-to-back All-Pro selections, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier cornerbacks. His contributions were instrumental in the Rams’ Super Bowl 56 victory, a defining moment in the franchise’s recent history.
Since Ramsey’s departure, the Rams have struggled to find a consistent replacement at the cornerback position. The team’s cornerback play in 2024 was a clear area of weakness, underscoring the void left by Ramsey’s absence. Ahkello Witherspoon, the Rams’ highest-graded cornerback for the season, ranked just 53rd out of 116 qualifiers at the position, according to Pro Football Focus. Witherspoon’s performance was further hampered by a passer rating of 103.1 when targeted.
In stark contrast, Ramsey graded 10th overall among cornerbacks and allowed a significantly lower passer rating of 93.5. These statistics highlight the significant upgrade that Ramsey would bring to the Rams’ defense, even as he enters his age-31 season. His presence would immediately elevate the Rams’ secondary and provide a much-needed boost to their overall defensive performance.
Despite the evident benefits of re-acquiring Ramsey, McVay remains cautious, acknowledging the complexities involved in such a move. He emphasized that "there are a lot of layers" to consider, particularly from a financial and asset-driven perspective. The Rams would need to navigate the salary cap implications of acquiring Ramsey’s contract and be willing to part with valuable draft picks or players to facilitate the trade.
McVay also anticipates strong competition from other teams interested in Ramsey’s services. Given his proven track record and continued high level of play, Ramsey is expected to be a highly sought-after commodity on the trade market. The Rams would need to present a compelling offer to convince the Dolphins to send Ramsey back to Los Angeles.
However, McVay and general manager Les Snead have established a reputation for aggressive decision-making during their tenure with the Rams. They have demonstrated a willingness to take calculated risks to improve the team’s roster and enhance their Super Bowl aspirations. Their philosophy is rooted in the belief that acquiring elite talent is essential for sustained success in the NFL.
McVay reiterated this philosophy, stating, "We’re never gonna shy away from opportunities to increase the competitiveness of our roster or add great players, as long as it fits within the framework of everything that an acquisition like that would entail." This statement suggests that the Rams are seriously considering a move for Ramsey and are prepared to make a significant investment if they believe he can be a "needle-mover" for the team.
The potential acquisition of Ramsey would not only address the Rams’ immediate need for a top-tier cornerback but also provide a veteran presence and leadership in the locker room. Ramsey’s experience and Super Bowl-winning pedigree could have a positive impact on the Rams’ younger players, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue Ramsey will depend on the Rams’ assessment of the overall cost and the potential return on investment. They will need to weigh the financial implications, the value of the assets required to complete the trade, and the potential impact that Ramsey could have on the team’s performance.
The Rams’ willingness to engage in aggressive player acquisitions suggests that they are serious contenders for Ramsey’s services. McVay’s consistent praise and the team’s demonstrated need for a cornerback of Ramsey’s caliber create a compelling narrative for a potential reunion. As the offseason progresses, the NFL world will be closely watching to see if the Rams can successfully navigate the complexities of a trade and bring Jalen Ramsey back to Los Angeles. A Ramsey return could signal a renewed commitment from the Rams to contend for championships and solidify their position as a force in the NFC. Only time will tell if this potential homecoming becomes a reality.
