The Dolphins signed Jalen Ramsey to a lucrative contract last September, making him one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in the league. However, less than a year later, the team is now seeking to trade Ramsey, a move that could result in a significant dead-money charge of $25.213 million if executed before June 1. This financial burden stems from the terms of Ramsey's previous contract, as well as bonus payments already received.
Ramsey's contract includes a fully-guaranteed option bonus for 2025 and a guaranteed base salary for the same year, totaling $20.153 million. With Ramsey's performance potentially declining as he ages, finding a trade partner willing to take on his contract obligations may prove challenging for the Dolphins. The team may need to absorb some of the financial burden to facilitate a trade, highlighting the implications of their decision to award Ramsey with a costly contract that now appears imprudent.