Bengals eye $72 Million trade move for Jalen Ramsey

After a playoff-less 2024 season plagued by defensive breakdowns, the Cincinnati Bengals are desperate for answers in the secondary. With Dax Hill and DJ Turner recovering from injuries and Cam Taylor-Britt struggling, cornerback is a clear weakness. Now, the team is reportedly eyeing a bold move, trading for Miami Dolphins star Jalen Ramsey, whose $72 million contract could either spark a Super Bowl run or backfire in a big way.Ramsey, a six-time Pro Bowler with a Super Bowl ring, remains one of the league’s most respected defensive backs. Despite turning 31 this October, his production hasn’t fallen off. In 2024, he allowed a modest 62% completion rate and a passer rating of just 83.2 when targeted. He also posted an elite 85.7 run defense grade, according to Pro Football Focus.For a Bengals team trying to claw its way back into title contention, Ramsey’s leadership and experience would be invaluable. He’s a tone-setter, a locker room force, and someone who’s been through the postseason gauntlet. On paper, he checks every box.But there’s no ignoring the financial reality. Ramsey’s current deal runs through 2028 and still carries $24 million in guaranteed money. That’s a massive commitment to a player entering his 30s, particularly for a franchise that’s never been known for splashy, high-risk moves.If the Bengals expect the Dolphins to cover part of Ramsey’s hefty contract, they’ll likely need to sweeten the deal with valuable draft picks, potentially a second-rounder or more. This sets up a critical dilemma. Do they push all-in for a short-term upgrade and jeopardize future cap flexibility, or stick to a longer-term plan with a younger, more affordable core that may take time to develop?Also Read: Saquon Barkley steals the spotlight at the Met Gala, but it’s his $82K watch that gets all the attentionFor Cincinnati, this isn’t just about adding a player. It’s about making a statement. Pursuing Jalen Ramsey would mark a shift from cautious building to aggressive contending. It could be the move that sparks a Super Bowl run or the gamble they regret for years. Either way, if the Bengals are serious about winning now, standing still is no longer an option.