The Miami Dolphins' stunning trade of star cornerback Jalen Ramsey has sent shockwaves through the NFL, leaving their secondary in disarray and drawing fiery criticism from former player Asante Samuel Sr.
In a move that has fans and analysts questioning the team’s direction, the Dolphins are scrambling to rebuild their defense. Samuel’s bold claims of organizational weakness have only intensified the scrutiny on Miami’s leadership.
Ramsey’s departure leaves a gaping hole in the Dolphins’ secondary, with the team now relying on unproven players like Storm Duck, Kader Kohou, Cam Smith, Artie Burns, Kendall Sheffield, and rookie Jason Marshall Jr. These players, while talented, lack the experience and impact of Ramsey, a seven-time Pro Bowler. The Dolphins’ defense, once a strength, now faces uncertainty as they head into the 2025 season.
Former NFL cornerback Samuel Sr. didn’t hold back in his criticism, calling the Dolphins’ organization “sensitive” and lacking leadership in a viral video on X. He labeled head coach Mike McDaniel a “pushover” and said GM Chris Grier “has no backbone,” accusing the team of running like a “little league” outfit with no control over players. Samuel’s remarks may stem from personal grievances, possibly related to the Dolphins not signing his son, Asante Samuel Jr.
But, that said, adding another layer of intrigue, the Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson reported that the Dolphins reached out to Asante Samuel Jr. to explore his interest in joining the team post-Ramsey trade. Given his father’s harsh critique, it’s likely those discussions didn’t unfold as Miami anticipated.
The trade has sparked varied reactions, with some fans defending the Dolphins’ strategy to reset their roster and others echoing Samuel’s concerns about leadership. Social media responses on X highlight skepticism, with users joking about Samuel’s motives or the Dolphins’ rivalry with other teams. The controversy has amplified pressure on Miami to prove its detractors wrong.
As the 2025 season looms, the Dolphins face a critical juncture. Their ability to strengthen the secondary and restore confidence in their leadership will determine their competitiveness in the AFC East, where they’ve been overshadowed by the Buffalo Bills. The trade’s long-term impact remains uncertain, but swift action is essential.