The Detroit Lions wrapped up June on a sour note after missing an opportunity to trade for star cornerback Jalen Ramsey, a move that could have solidified their defense heading into a season with championship aspirations.
Detroit, fresh off a 15-2 campaign in 2024 and considered a top Super Bowl contender with the fifth-best odds per DraftKings, had been linked to Ramsey prior to the NFL Draft, according to Outkick’s Armando Salguero. Ramsey reportedly preferred joining a contender, and the Lions were among the teams Miami engaged about a potential deal.
However, the Dolphins instead struck a blockbuster trade on Monday with the Pittsburgh Steelers, sending Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith to Pittsburgh in exchange for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a late-round pick. The trade allowed the Dolphins to limit their dead cap hit to $6.7 million after June 1.
While Detroit’s cornerback room is already improved with the addition of DJ Reed in free agency, alongside second-year standout Terrion Arnold and slot defender Amik Robertson, the Lions saw firsthand last season how quickly injuries can decimate depth—13 defensive players landed on season-ending IR by year’s end.
Adding Ramsey would have created a formidable duo with Arnold and provided veteran leadership for the promising young corner. But the Lions reportedly lacked a tradeable asset to send to Miami. Despite holding $40 million in cap space, Detroit opted to stay put, potentially waiting for another opportunity before the trade deadline.
For now, the Lions will move forward with their current roster as they chase their first NFC championship since the AFL-NFL merger.
Lions Miss Out on Jalen Ramsey, Ending June with Missed Opportunity
