Newly acquired Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey will continue wearing his preferred jersey number, No. 5, with his new team. Ramsey shared an image of his Steelers jersey on social media, confirming the number choice. Previously, the No. 5 jersey belonged to cornerback D’Shawn Jamison, who spent last season on Pittsburgh’s practice squad and is now working to earn a spot on the active roster during training camp.
Ramsey has consistently worn No. 5 for the past four NFL seasons. He sported it during his time with the Miami Dolphins in both 2023 and 2024 and earlier with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021 and 2022. His decision to keep the number reflects a preference that has remained strong since the NFL relaxed its jersey number rules.
Jalen Ramsey (NFL)
Ramsey’s Jersey Choice Reflects Longstanding Preference for Bold, Single-Digit Numbers in Football
At the start of his professional career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Ramsey wore No. 20. He kept that number briefly after being traded to the Rams in 2020. However, when the NFL updated its rules in 2021 to allow more players to wear single-digit numbers, Ramsey made the switch to No. 5 and has worn it ever since.
Ramsey’s affinity for single-digit numbers dates back to his college days at Florida State, where he wore No. 8. His switch to No. 5 in the NFL was a continuation of his personal preference for standout, low-digit jerseys, now carried on with the Steelers.
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.
The Eagles are heading into the 2025 NFL season with serious concerns on the defensive front. Having lost Josh Sweat and dealing with Nolan Smith’s injury, they’re banking on unproven players like Moro Ojomo and Jalyx Hunt to step up.
To reinforce their pass rush, trading for Trey Hendrickson, who led the league in sacks in 2024 and is currently in a contract dispute with the Bengals, could be a game-changing move. After offloading Bryce Huff to the 49ers and clearing cap space, GM Howie Roseman may see Hendrickson as a defensive version of the A.J. Brown deal from 2022: a bold acquisition with immediate impact.
Tyreek Hill’s standing in Miami has become increasingly tenuous. Frustrated by a poor 2024 campaign in which both the team and his performance dipped, Hill briefly expressed a desire to leave before walking it back.
Nonetheless, financial and off-field concerns linger, and trading him could save the Dolphins nearly $15 million. If Miami is willing to deal within the division, the Patriots, with rookie QB Drake Maye and OC Josh McDaniels, stand out as an ideal landing spot. Hill’s elite speed would instantly boost New England’s revamped offense.
Hendrickson Fits Commanders’ Needs as Rams Consider Reunion With Veteran Cornerback Ramsey
Despite the Bengals’ hesitance to trade key pieces, Trey Hendrickson’s situation is deteriorating. Cincinnati hasn’t made the playoffs in two years, and the star pass rusher’s value may never be higher after a league-leading 17.5 sacks in 2024.
Jalen Ramsey (NFL)
Washington, boasting ample cap space and a rookie quarterback in Jayden Daniels, makes sense as a trade partner. The Commanders are thin on proven edge talent and could benefit greatly from Hendrickson’s presence as they look to contend.
Veteran cornerback Jalen Ramsey and the Dolphins have agreed to explore trade opportunities, opening the door for a reunion with the Rams. Ramsey, despite being over 30, remains a high-level performer and was instrumental in Los Angeles’ 2021 Super Bowl win.
With head coach Sean McVay already acknowledging the potential fit, a trade could bolster the Rams’ secondary and bring valuable leadership and experience to a young defense aiming to return to championship contention.
Patriots Could Target Hendrickson as Lions Seek Veteran Help After Ragnow Retirement
If Hendrickson does become available, the Patriots are another logical destination. Under new leadership from Mike Vrabel and with rookie QB Drake Maye on a cheap contract, New England has room to take swings in the trade market.
They’ve already invested heavily in defense this offseason, and adding a premier edge rusher like Hendrickson would enhance their ability to challenge the Bills for AFC East supremacy. Even though the Bengals are generally reluctant to part with stars, this might be the exception.
The Lions were rocked by Frank Ragnow’s unexpected retirement, leaving a void at center. While they’ve signed Trystan Colon and have depth in players like rookie Beaux Limmer, who started 16 games last season in Los Angeles, they may still pursue upgrades.
Limmer showed promise, especially in run blocking, but key mistakes in the playoffs highlight the need for more reliability. Given GM Brad Holmes’ history of successful trades with Rams GM Les Snead, a deal for a veteran center could be on the horizon as Detroit aims to keep its offensive line among the league’s elite.
The Miami Dolphins and cornerback Jalen Ramsey are reportedly exploring potential trade options for the star defensive player. According to NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, both the team and Ramsey are open to the possibility of a split, which could see him playing elsewhere during the upcoming season.
This development marks a significant change for a player who was acquired by the Dolphins in 2022, with the expectation of solidifying their defense for years to come.
Jalen Ramsey’s Strong Debut with Dolphins Followed by Decline in 2024 Performance
Jalen Ramsey’s first season with the Dolphins had its ups and downs. After being traded from the Los Angeles Rams for a third-round pick and tight end Hunter Long, he battled through a knee injury that forced him to miss the first seven games of the season.
Despite this setback, Ramsey continued to maintain his high level of play, earning his seventh Pro Bowl selection. His performance showcased his resilience and defensive prowess, reaffirming his status as one of the league’s top cornerbacks.
Jalen Ramsey (NFL)
After his solid debut season, Ramsey agreed to a three-year, $72.3 million contract extension with the Dolphins, making him the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback at the time. However, his performance in 2024 did not meet the usual high standards expected from him.
Although he appeared in every game, Ramsey failed to make the Pro Bowl for the first time since 2019, signaling a decline in his production. Additionally, the cornerback market has risen since his contract extension, with players like Derek Stingley Jr. and Jaycee Horn surpassing his deal in the offseason.
In the offseason, the Dolphins made moves to strengthen their cornerback depth by signing Artie Burns and Ifeatu Melifonwu. They also have Kader Kohou, Elijah Campbell, and Storm Duck on the roster, all of whom started at least one game in the previous season.
However, with Ramsey’s potential departure, Miami could turn to the 2025 NFL Draft to further bolster its cornerback position. The Dolphins hold the No. 13 overall pick and have nine additional selections, offering them the flexibility to strengthen their defense, especially if a trade is completed before the draft.
There is no specific deadline for a trade, but with the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, it would make sense for the Dolphins to finalize a deal beforehand. A trade would allow Miami to use the assets gained to improve the roster for the upcoming season.
Should Ramsey leave the Dolphins, his time in Miami would end with 82 tackles, 16 passes defended, six tackles for loss, and five interceptions over two seasons, marking a notable but somewhat turbulent tenure with the team.
