In a major late-June NFL shake-up, the Pittsburgh Steelers traded safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for cornerback Jalen Ramsey, tight end Jonnu Smith, and a 2027 seventh-round pick.
The deal, featuring multiple Pro Bowlers, signals a bold move by the Steelers, who have already had a busy offseason, including the high-profile addition of quarterback Aaron Rodgers. This trade highlights Pittsburgh’s aggressive push for a Super Bowl run, while also allowing Miami to address roster needs.
Fitzpatrick, a four-time Pro Bowler, has seen a decline in production since his 2022 All-Pro season. Injuries and schematic changes in Pittsburgh limited his playmaking opportunities, and his $22 million cap hit for 2025 made him a financial liability. Although respected for his leadership and instincts, Fitzpatrick’s departure frees up resources and reshapes the Steelers’ secondary, especially as the team negotiates a long-term extension with star pass rusher T.J. Watt.
Veteran Stars Find New Roles As Dolphins And Steelers Redefine Defensive Identities
Fitzpatrick returns to the team that drafted him, but now in a different context. Miami has a major need at safety after losing Jevon Holland and Jordan Poyer in free agency. While Fitzpatrick has primarily played as a deep free safety in Pittsburgh, his recent struggles in range and tackling raise questions about how effective he’ll be in that role again. Nevertheless, the Dolphins believe he can stabilize their back end as a veteran presence with versatility.
Jalen Ramsey (NFL)Though Ramsey played well in 2023 and even made All-Pro honors, tensions with the Dolphins organization grew during a disappointing 2024 campaign. While GM Chris Grier insisted Ramsey didn’t ask for a trade or a raise, both parties agreed a split was best. The Dolphins are looking to shift their locker room culture, and removing high-profile personalities like Ramsey became part of that strategy. Despite his strong play, Miami deemed the move as addition by subtraction.
Ramsey’s role in Pittsburgh may evolve beyond just outside cornerback duties. With Darius Slay Jr. and Joey Porter Jr. on the outside, Ramsey could take on a “star” role similar to his time with the Rams—serving as a hybrid nickel defender. Pittsburgh may also explore a move to safety for Ramsey, utilizing his intelligence and physicality in a more central position. His $26.6 million contract for 2025 signals Pittsburgh’s commitment to maximizing his value.
Offensive Gaps And Roster Needs Leave Dolphins, Steelers Searching For Final Puzzle Pieces
Jonnu Smith was a crucial outlet in Miami’s offense, especially against two-high safety looks that focused on Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Smith thrived underneath, ranking highly in yards per route run and first down rate among tight ends. His departure leaves a big hole in a scheme dependent on yards after catch. With 112 targets vacated, the Dolphins must find another reliable pass catcher to keep the offense efficient and balanced.
The Steelers’ recent moves suggest a new era of aggressive roster building under GM Omar Khan. Beyond Ramsey, Rodgers, and Metcalf, the team may still seek reinforcements—particularly at safety and wide receiver. With Juan Thornhill and DeShon Elliott in place, another free safety could still be added. Pittsburgh has also expressed interest in another wideout to pair with Metcalf, previously hosting Gabe Davis as a potential fit.
Despite acquiring Fitzpatrick, Miami still faces gaps, especially at cornerback and tight end. With limited experience among their current CB group, signing a veteran remains likely. The Dolphins also need a pass-catching tight end, with their current group leaning heavily toward blocking roles. One potential splash move would be a trade for Kyle Pitts, should Atlanta make him available. Clearly, Miami’s roster reshaping isn’t finished as training camp nears.
