Report: Steelers Had Strong Competition For Jalen Ramsey Via An NFC West Team

The Pittsburgh Steelers are making big moves once again with a blockbuster trade that’s created major conversation across the league. In a surprising move, the Steelers sent safety Minkah Fitzpatrick back to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith. While Fitzpatrick was undoubtedly a key piece of the organization, reports suggest that the Steelers weren’t actively looking to shop him, but ultimately didn’t view him as part of their long-term plans. In return, they’ve landed two top talent players who could play major roles in the team’s future.

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Jalen Ramsey (left) and Minkah Fitzpatrick (right).

While the Steelers and fans are super excited about their newest additions, they weren’t the only team with eyes on Ramsey. During a recent appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, NFL insider Tom Pelissero talked about the details behind the blockbuster trade. He revealed that the Los Angeles Rams, which was one of Ramsey’s former teams, were also interested in bringing him back, but ultimately weren’t able to make it happen.

Ramsey was a key part of the Rams' defense. During his time there, he continued his reputation one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. He was tough, confident, and often matched up against the other team’s top wide receiver. Ramsey played a big role in helping the Rams win games, including their Super Bowl victory in the 2021 season. 

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Steelers' Jalen Ramsey (5) and DK Metcalf (14) showcase their heated past rivalry while with their former teams.

One of the main concerns about bringing in Ramsey however, was the high cost associated with acquiring such a top talent cornerback. Being one of the best in the league naturally comes with a significant price tag, which made this a major factor to consider. Fortunately for the Steelers, they had the financial flexibility and cap space available to make this move, unlike the Rams, who were more limited in their ability to absorb Ramsey’s salary.

The Steelers had been connected to Ramsey for some time before the trade was officially made, while rumors circulated around the league. While the Steelers have already added some solid pieces to their secondary, complementing the talented players they already had on the roster, bringing in a high-caliber player like Ramsey is definitely a strong move. His addition not only brings valuable experience to the defense, but also fosters healthy competition among the players. Furthermore, Ramsey’s presence helps strengthen the team’s depth, which is crucial for handling injuries and maintaining consistent performance throughout the season.

The Steelers intend to get full value from Ramsey, viewing him as a highly versatile player. He’s capable of playing multiple roles within the secondary, making him valuable in a variety of positions depending on the team’s needs. This versatility is one key reason fans and analysts are excited about the potential impact Ramsey can have on the Steelers’ defense.

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Steelers' new cornerback Jalen Ramsey warms up prior to a game with the Miami Dolphins.

The Steelers Are Trying To Do The Impossible

The Steelers are attempting something that many teams cannot, finding the perfect balance between staying competitive now, and building for a successful future. They are combining the leadership and experience of seasoned veterans with the potential of young, talented rookies. This approach allows them to aim for short-term success without sacrificing long-term development, which is rarely done right in the NFL. 

With the number of big moves the Steelers have made this offseason, the roster heading into the upcoming season looks almost unrecognizable compared to last year. Still, many fans and analysts are optimistic. Everyone is excited to see how this combination can make an impact, not just on this season, but for years down the line as the team evolves and grows together.