Newest Steelers should send thank-you cards to ex-Dolphins teammate

This trade received a stamp of approval.
Jalen Ramsey CB Miami Dolphins
Jalen Ramsey CB Miami Dolphins | Kevin Sabitus/GettyImages

On Monday morning, the Pittsburgh Steelers made a blockbuster move by acquiring All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey via trade. The deal sent shockwaves through the NFL, and while the reactions were mixed, one former teammate didn’t hold back.

Miami Dolphins running back Raheem Mostert took to X to voice his thoughts:

“Hot Take: Be a Pro-Bowler for the Dolphins gets treated sh*t,” Mostert wrote. “Happy for my guy though! Go ball out!”

It's hard to tell who Mostert was directing these comments toward. Ramsey, who is typically a perennial Pro Bowler, didn't make the Pro Bowl roster last year for the first time since his rookie season, while Smith made the first Pro Bowl of his career in 2024 at 29 years old. Perhaps the comments were directed toward both former Dolphins involved in the trade.

More than just a farewell message, this post served as a stamp of approval from someone who witnessed Ramsey’s journey up close.

Ramsey’s time in Miami, though statistically strong, was marred by questions about the fit, scheme, and vision. Injuries limited his debut season, but he still made a noticeable impact when on the field. Meanwhile, Smith was the leading receiver on the Dolphins in 2024.

Despite Ramsey's contributions, there were growing signs of tension between the star cornerback and the organization. Meanwhile, Jonnu has been at the center of trade discussions since the 2025 NFL Draft.

Mostert’s comment reflects that friction—publicly confirming what many had speculated: things behind the scenes weren’t as smooth as they seemed.

The Pittsburgh Steelers will have motivated stars in Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith

Mostert, a respected veteran and leader in the Dolphins' locker room, offered more than support—he offered insight. Having played alongside Ramsey and Smith, he saw firsthand the professionalism, effort, and skill both players brought daily, even as external pressures mounted.

The praise was more than obligatory—it was meaningful.

For the Steelers, this endorsement is significant. Pittsburgh is known for its defensive identity, and Ramsey fits the mold of a classic Steelers defender: tough, smart, and confident. He’s an aggressive, ball-hawking corner with a championship mindset.

READ MORE: Steelers just sent a loud message with shocking Jalen Ramsey trade

His veteran presence and swagger can lift the secondary to new heights, especially in a division stacked with receiving talent. Even more important is what Mostert's words suggest about Ramsey’s character. To endure a tense situation, remain productive, and earn the respect of your peers speaks volumes.

One thing the Steelers organization values is players who show up, do the work, and make an impact in the locker room, not just on the field. As Ramsey transitions to the black and gold, expect him to carry his former peer's words as both motivation and validation.

With a chip on his shoulder and a new environment that thrives on defensive excellence, don’t be surprised if Jalen Ramsey re-establishes himself as one of the league’s most feared corners in 2025.

Likewise, Mostert had the privilege of playing alongside Jonnu Smith on offense in 2024. Mostert was not oblivious to the impact Smith made, as he proved to be the go-to target on the team and deservingly earned Pro Bowl honors. Both Smith and Ramsey should be thanking Mostert for the added motivation in 2025.

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