Miami’s Financial Tightrope: June 1 Deadline Looms

The Miami Dolphins’ efforts to trade star cornerback Jalen Ramsey have hit a critical phase, with the Los Angeles Rams, Atlanta Falcons, and Las Vegas Raiders emerging as frontrunners. Despite Ramsey’s strong 2024 performance (2 interceptions, 11 passes defended, 76.9 PFF grade), Miami’s refusal to absorb any of his $21 million guaranteed salary has stalled negotiations:cite[1]:cite[4].

The Contract Conundrum

Ramsey’s 2024 Contract extension—a 3-year, $72.3 million deal making him the NFL’s highest-paid CB at the time—complicates trade math:cite[5]. Key financial hurdles:

• Pre-June 1 trade: $25.2M dead cap hit for Miami, pushing them $8.5M over 2025 cap
• Post-June 1 trade: $6.7M dead money, $9.9M cap savings:cite[1]:cite[4]

Contenders Circle: Who Needs Ramsey Most?

Los Angeles Rams: The Reunion Play

The Rams—who traded Ramsey to Miami in 2023—have openly discussed reuniting with the 3-time All-Pro. With $19.5M cap space and a glaring need for CB1 talent, GM Les Snead calls this a “second Free Agency” period. Coach Sean McVay praised Ramsey’s “total stud” potential but acknowledged contractual complexities:cite[1]:cite[6].

Atlanta Falcons: Coaching Connections

Falcons HC Raheem Morris (Ramsey’s former Rams DC) seeks veteran leadership for a young secondary. While AJ Terrell anchors one side, Atlanta’s lack of CB depth makes Ramsey an intriguing fit:cite[6].

Las Vegas Raiders: Experience Wanted

After cutting Jack Jones, the Raiders need boundary help to counter AFC West aerial attacks. Ramsey’s physicality aligns with DC Patrick Graham’s scheme, though his $21M salary tests Vegas’ $18.2M cap space:cite[6].

Trade Dynamics: Risks vs. Rewards

Miami’s “clean trade” demand (full salary absorption by acquiring team) has narrowed the market. Key factors:

• Age/Injury Risk: Ramsey turns 31 in October and missed 7 games in 2023-24:cite[1]:cite[8]
• Bargain Price: Dolphins may accept as low as a 5th-round pick to unload salary:cite[6]
• Contract Dominoes: No guaranteed money after 2025 allows teams short-term flexibility:cite[4]

What’s Next? The June 1 Countdown

ESPN’s Adam Schefter predicts increased activity post-June 1 when Miami gains cap relief. While the Cincinnati Bengals and Detroit Lions remain dark horses, Rams and Falcons appear best positioned to meet Miami’s terms. As Schefter notes: “There’s more interest than people realize”—setting up a potential bidding war that could reshape NFC contenders:cite[1]:cite[4]:cite[6].