In a stunning move, the Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Steelers have swapped star defensive backs, sending former Alabama All-American Minkah Fitzpatrick back to Miami and cornerback Jalen Ramsey to Pittsburgh.
The trade, reported by the Miami Herald, NFL Network, and ESPN, reunites the Dolphins with Fitzpatrick, who they originally drafted 11th overall in 2018 before trading him to Pittsburgh just two games into his second NFL season. Since then, Fitzpatrick has become a three-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowler, highlighted by leading the NFL in interceptions with six in 2022.
Meanwhile, the Steelers acquire Ramsey, a seven-time Pro Bowler and three-time first-team All-Pro, who announced his move to Pittsburgh on social media Monday. The trade also includes Pittsburgh sending tight end Jonnu Smith and a 2027 seventh-round pick to Miami, with the Dolphins giving up a 2027 fifth-rounder as part of the deal. Ramsey’s contract has been sweetened with an additional $1.5 million in 2025, raising his salary to $26.6 million for the upcoming season. The Steelers also doubled Smith’s salary to $12 million for next year.
Fitzpatrick’s return could bolster a Dolphins defense that struggled with consistency last season. The Crimson Tide alum was a dominant force at Alabama, where he won both the Bednarik and Thorpe Awards while helping lead the Tide to the 2017 national championship.
The trade signals an aggressive push by both franchises: Pittsburgh looks to strengthen its secondary with Ramsey’s elite coverage skills, while Miami hopes Fitzpatrick can revive the takeaway magic he showcased during his early years with the Steelers.
Minkah Fitzpatrick Returns to Dolphins as Ramsey Heads to Steelers in Star-Studded Trade
