In a blockbuster trade shaking up the NFL offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers have acquired three-time All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey and Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for three-time All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round draft pick, while also receiving a 2027 seventh-round pick. The deal, finalized on June 30, 2025, represents a significant reshaping of both teams’ rosters, with Pittsburgh adding veteran star power to its defense and offense, while Miami welcomes back a familiar face to bolster its secondary.
Ramsey, a 30-year-old seven-time Pro Bowler, brings elite coverage skills to a Steelers secondary already featuring Darius Slay Jr. and Joey Porter Jr. His 2024 season with Miami included 60 tackles, two interceptions, and 11 pass breakups across 17 starts, though his 83.2 passer rating allowed suggests a slight dip from his peak as a shutdown corner. With a $1.5 million raise, Ramsey’s 2025 salary rises to $26.6 million, with Miami covering $3 million to facilitate the trade. His versatility, including potential to play safety, offers Pittsburgh flexibility, though integrating him into a crowded cornerback room alongside Slay and Porter will test coach Mike Tomlin’s creativity.
Jonnu Smith, 29, joins Pittsburgh after a career-best 2024 season, setting Dolphins franchise records for a tight end with 88 receptions and 884 yards, plus eight touchdowns. His one-year, $12 million extension through 2026 reunites him with Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who coached him in Tennessee and Atlanta. Smith’s athleticism and familiarity with the system complement tight end Pat Freiermuth, enhancing Pittsburgh’s pass-catching options after trading receiver George Pickens to Dallas. The Steelers’ frequent use of multi-tight end sets—45% of 2024 plays featured two or more—makes Smith a seamless fit for their Aaron Rodgers-led offense.
Minkah Fitzpatrick, 28, returns to Miami, where he was drafted 11th overall in 2018. After a standout rookie year, he requested a trade in 2019 due to dissatisfaction with his role under then-coach Brian Flores, leading to his move to Pittsburgh. There, he earned five Pro Bowls and three All-Pro nods, amassing 20 interceptions and 608 tackles in 106 games. However, his production dipped recently, with just one interception since 2023, prompting questions about his trajectory. His $15.5 million salary for 2025 fits Miami’s cap, addressing a need at safety after losing Jevon Holland and Jordan Poyer in free agency.
The trade reflects divergent strategies. Pittsburgh, chasing a Super Bowl in what may be Rodgers’ final season, adds Ramsey’s defensive prowess and Smith’s offensive versatility, building on moves like signing Slay and trading for DK Metcalf. Miami, after an 8-9 season and playoff miss, gains cap relief—$10 million by shedding Ramsey’s $25.2 million and Smith’s salary—and a proven leader in Fitzpatrick to stabilize a rebuilding secondary. Dolphins GM Chris Grier called the move a step toward winning now and in the future, despite losing two key starters.
Fans and players reacted strongly. Former Dolphin Raheem Mostert criticized Miami’s treatment of Pro Bowlers, while Ramsey confirmed the trade on social media with enthusiasm: “Break my own news! #HereWeGo.” The deal sets up a compelling Week 15 matchup when the Dolphins visit Pittsburgh, with Ramsey, Smith, and Fitzpatrick facing their former teams.
