Jalen Ramsey’s Behavior Reportedly Was ‘Drain’ on Dolphins, Trade Was ‘Team-Driven’

The Miami Dolphins wanted out of the Jalen Ramsey business when they traded the veteran safety to the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to ESPN’s Marcel Louis-Jacques.

Louis-Jacques reported the Dolphins “have sought to improve the culture inside their building” after the conclusion of the 2024 NFL season. As part of that, the organization made a “team-driven” choice to part ways with Ramsey.

“Ramsey’s behavior, meanwhile, became a drain on team morale, according to multiple sources, including current and former players, who said his actions varied from being late to team activities to outright leaving practice,” the ESPN insider wrote.

Neither Ramsey nor his agent, David Mulugheta, offered a comment to Louis-Jacques for the story.

This provides further context for why the Dolphins deemed Ramsey to be expendable despite him continuing to perform at a reasonably high level in 2024.

The three-time All-Pro finished with 60 tackles, two interceptions and 11 pass breakups while starting in every game. His trade also came just one year after he signed a massive extension.

Maybe Miami’s attempt to reset the culture will bear fruit in due time. For now, the team is waiting for the effects to be reflected in the standings.

The Dolphins lost their first two games and have the NFL’s second-worst point differential (minus-31). A defense that ranks 31st in opponent passer rating (126.1) could certainly use a player of Ramsey’s caliber.

Louis-Jacques cited a source who said the bar for head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier may not be “playoffs or bust.” Missing the postseason for a second straight year may not send either packing.

If the general atmosphere within the locker room is better, then that may be enough to buy McDaniel and Grier more time in their roles.