Throughout NFL history, elite cornerback duos have been few and far between. Often, a team features one top-tier talent paired with a solid but lesser counterpart-or two capable starters who don’t quite reach that elite level. Rarely do two shutdown corners end up on the same roster. But the Miami Dolphins could break that mold by trading Jalen Ramsey to the New York Jets, pairing him with Sauce Gardner to create an excellent cornerback duo. And the Dolphins wouldn’t walk away empty-handed.
With Ramsey and Miami reportedly agreeing it’s time to move on, a deal must happen quickly. The Jets, a division rival whom Miami sees twice a year, might be the ideal trade partner. New York is fresh off losing DJ Reed to the Detroit Lions in free agency. They attempted to replace him by signing Brandon Stephens from the Baltimore Ravens, but the need for another elite corner remains. Ramsey would be a perfect fit opposite Gardner, immediately restoring-and even elevating-a defense that’s already been among the league’s best in recent years.
The Jets, now reinvigorated after signing quarterback Justin Fields, should be looking to fill their remaining defensive gaps before turning full attention to offense in the draft. Acquiring Ramsey would do precisely that, locking down the secondary and allowing the front office to prioritize playmakers and protection for Fields moving forward. Proposed Trade: To the Jets: CB Jalen Ramsey 155th overall pick (5th round) To the Dolphins: DT Leonard Taylor III S Jarius Monroe CB Qwan’tez Stiggers 110th overall pick (4th round) At first glance, the return for Ramsey might look underwhelming, with three young names that haven’t made national headlines.
But this deal could be one of the most beneficial packages the Dolphins can realistically get. New York would be bringing in one of the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history. Ramsey’s presence would elevate the defense and help mentor Gardner, creating a frightening duo for opposing offenses. On top of that, the Jets would gain a fifth-round pick to add offensive depth or replace lost talent. In return, Miami receives three young, high-upside defenders to help reinforce a unit that may soon undergo a reshaping.
Leonard Taylor III, a former University of Miami standout, enters his second year after posting 24 tackles, 1.5 sacks, one pass deflection, and six stuffs in 14 games as a rookie. Though his playing time was limited, Taylor showed real promise and could provide quality depth behind the new addition, Derrick Nnadi. Qwan’tez Stiggers is a unique story. A former Fan Controlled Football League standout and CFL Rookie of the Year finalist, he recorded eight tackles in 14 games with the Jets last season after being drafted in the fifth round. At 23, he possesses excellent instincts, physicality, and athletic traits. With another offseason of development, he could push for a starting role in Miami’s secondary-especially as the team looks to retool that unit.
Jarius Monroe, a 24-year-old safety out of Toledo, played sparingly in his rookie year but has intriguing potential. A college cornerback who transitioned to safety, Monroe brings ball skills, tackling ability, and versatility. With Miami’s thin safety room, Monroe could get a legitimate shot to earn a more significant role-especially if the team embraces a youth movement.
The Dolphins would also move up 45 spots in the draft, receiving a fourth-round pick they could use to address other needs-perhaps bolstering the defensive line further or adding depth at wide receiver, quarterback, or offensive tackle. Potential names include Texas QB Quinn Ewers, Virginia Tech WR Jaylin Lane, or Texas OT Cameron Williams.
This deal provides Miami with a solid foundation for the future. While none of the three defenders may reach Ramsey’s level individually, their collective upside-along with improved draft positioning-makes this a long-term win for the Dolphins. Whether Miami is quietly pivoting toward a rebuild or simply reshaping its defense on the fly, this trade could serve as a smart, forward-thinking move. And for the Jets? It could be the final piece to take their defense-and perhaps their team-to the next level.