Miami Dolphins cornerback Jalen Ramsey is currently the biggest name being floated on the NFL trade market, and the Los Angeles Chargers have been listed as one of his preferred landing spots. Given Ramsey’s star power, it’s no surprise that many Chargers fans are already imagining him paired up with Derwin James in the secondary.
However, trading for Ramsey comes with notable risks that may give the Chargers serious hesitation. And based on recent developments involving another high-profile cornerback, it seems likely the team won’t pursue Ramsey at all.
Jaire Alexander recently signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens — a contract well within the Chargers’ budget. Yet there’s no indication the Chargers were even involved in those discussions. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, only the Falcons and Dolphins were in the running for Alexander. The Chargers weren’t mentioned.
Chargers’ disinterest in Alexander signals they’re out on Ramsey too
While Ramsey has had a more accomplished career than Alexander, the cost to acquire him would be significantly higher. Alexander could’ve been brought in on a short-term deal, while Ramsey would require both draft capital and a commitment to his hefty contract.
Although a sixth- or seventh-round pick could be enough to land Ramsey, the real issue lies in his salary. He’s set to carry a $16.6 million cap hit in 2025, followed by $25 million in 2026, $26.8 million in 2027, and a whopping $36.1 million in 2028 — when he’ll be 34. Even if the Chargers have the cap space, taking on that financial burden may not be a smart move.
There are potential outs in the deal that could let the Chargers cut ties after a year or two, but it raises the question: is it worth giving up assets for a player you’re likely to release relatively soon? Especially when that still leaves behind cap implications.
Cornerbacks tend to decline in their 30s, and Ramsey, about to turn 31, is already showing signs of slowing down. Taking on his contract now would mean paying top dollar for a player whose best days may already be behind him.
Teams in desperation mode may be willing to take that gamble — but the Chargers appear unwilling to do so even for cheaper stars like Alexander. That makes a blockbuster move for Ramsey highly unlikely.
It may not be the news fans want to hear, but in the long run, it’s likely the smartest path forward.
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