The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2025 offseason with a clear mission — strengthen the secondary and find a difference-maker to line up opposite Joey Porter Jr. They made a notable move in March by signing veteran Darius Slay to a one-year, $10 million deal.
But it quickly became clear they weren’t done looking.
One of their top targets was Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander. That dream ended when the Baltimore Ravens swooped in and signed him to a one-year deal worth up to $6 million.
With Alexander officially off the table, the Steelers now have one real option left if they’re serious about contending this season.
Trade for Jalen Ramsey.
Despite already signing Slay, the Steelers were interested in doubling down at corner. They wanted another proven star in the mix, and for good reason. Slay, while accomplished, is entering his 13th season.
Pittsburgh needs a younger, more dynamic presence to help solidify the backend — and Ramsey checks every box.
The Pittsburgh Steelers must make the call to trade for Jalen Ramsey
A former first-round pick, Ramsey’s résumé is stacked: three-time All-Pro, Super Bowl champion, and seven-time Pro Bowler. His reputation has taken a slight dip due to recent injuries and inconsistency, but that’s exactly why he’s such an intriguing trade target.
At 29 years old, Ramsey has a chip on his shoulder and the talent to match. His 24 interceptions in 135 games speak to his instincts and ball skills — qualities the Steelers value in their physical, aggressive style of defense.
Ramsey would cost $9.9 million in cap space to acquire, and yes, the Miami Dolphins would need to be open to a trade. But Pittsburgh has the resources to make it happen. They have plenty of cap flexibility, and they own a league-high 12 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft.
More than enough to offer meaningful draft capital in return.
It’s a low-cost gamble for a potentially high-impact player. Ramsey wouldn’t just be a short-term fix — he could elevate the entire secondary and give the Steelers the kind of elite defensive presence they’ve been chasing all offseason.
With Alexander now a Raven, there’s no time to hesitate. If the Steelers want to remain competitive in the AFC North, they need to make the call. Jalen Ramsey is the last big move on the board — and Pittsburgh should make it.