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Jalen Ramsey mock trade has Steelers exchanging one aging DB for another

The deal would be one for one and could see both sides win.
Jalen Ramsey S Pittsburgh Steelers
Jalen Ramsey S Pittsburgh Steelers | Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Moving on from Jalen Ramsey does not appear to be a top priority for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they head into the NFL Draft. Regardless of their long-term plans, the team would be wise to keep every option on the table. The versatile defensive back showed flashes of his former elite play last season, but his sizable cap hit remains difficult to justify.

The good news is that a potentially realistic trade partner may have just emerged for the Steelers.

Veteran cornerback Kenny Moore II has reportedly requested a trade from the Indianapolis Colts. An undrafted free agent in 2017, Moore developed into a reliable and consistent contributor during his time in Indianapolis. A swap involving Moore and Ramsey could make sense for both sides, and this mock trade proposal only adds fuel to the discussion.

While a potential deal does not appear imminent, it does present an intriguing opportunity for both sides. Pittsburgh would acquire a player capable of filling the slot cornerback role that Ramsey would seemingly leave behind. From the Colts’ perspective, the move could provide an upgrade in the form of a proven defender who can line up across the secondary and is already under contract.

Pittsburgh Steelers mock trades has Jalen Ramsey leaving in exchange for Kenny Moore II

In this mock trade scenario, the Steelers would send out Ramsey and replace him with Moore. One‑for‑one trades like this are rare, but this proposal carries a clear blockbuster feel. If Pittsburgh were to realistically consider moving Ramsey, filling the resulting void at slot cornerback would be essential. This scenario presents a situation in which both teams could come away content.

Both players are on the back end of their careers and appear to be nearing the downward slope of their respective primes. Ramsey was once a true shutdown corner on the outside, but last season, he spent significant time playing in the slot and at safety for Pittsburgh. His days as an elite cover defender are likely behind him, and his contract situation could make the Colts hesitant in a deal.

Ramsey carries a sizable cap hit and a complicated contract structure that adds another layer of risk.

Trading Ramsey is one thing, but ensuring his contract aligns with both current and future cap plans would be far more interesting. He remains under contract for two seasons beyond 2026, though there is a potential silver lining. If Ramsey fails to live up to expectations, his deal is structured in a way that creates significant cap relief during those final two years, even if they choose to release him.

While he is under contract, the Colts would have the flexibility to approach his situation on a year‑to‑year basis.

On the other hand, Moore could present some challenges of his own. He is under contract for significantly less than Ramsey for the upcoming season, but his deal expires after the year. That setup works in Pittsburgh’s favor if the fit does not pan out. However, if Moore performs at a high level, he could quickly price himself out of the Steelers’ plans.

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