The Pittsburgh Steelers’ blockbuster offseason trade for Jalen Ramsey was supposed to transform their secondary into one of the NFL’s most feared units. Instead, the first half of the 2025 season has been a rollercoaster of injuries, controversy, and mounting questions about whether the former All-Pro cornerback can still live up to his superstar billing.
A High-Profile Trade and Sky-High Expectations
When the Steelers sent safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for Ramsey this summer, fans and analysts alike hailed the move as a bold win-now statement. Ramsey, a six-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion, was expected to shadow opposing teams’ top receivers and bring swagger to a defense hungry for playmakers.
But the honeymoon didn’t last long.
Hamstring Woes and Uncertain Return
Ramsey’s season hit an early snag in Week 4, when he suffered a
hamstring injury against the Minnesota Vikings. Initial reports suggested he could miss several weeks, casting doubt on his availability for key divisional matchups.
Yet, in classic Ramsey fashion, the 30-year-old cornerback has pushed hard to return. He’s been a limited participant in practice leading up to the Steelers’ crucial Week 6 clash with the Cleveland Browns, officially listed as “questionable.” When pressed by reporters, Ramsey played coy about his status:
“We’ll see,” he said, emphasizing his desire to help his team but refusing to commit to a return date.
Head coach Mike Tomlin credited the bye week for aiding Ramsey’s rehab, but with another AFC North showdown against the Bengals looming just five days after the Browns game, the Steelers are weighing whether to risk their star’s health or play it safe.
On-Field Struggles and Harsh Criticism
Even before the injury, Ramsey’s play had come under scrutiny. In a recent loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, he was repeatedly targeted by quarterback Joe Flacco and burned by star receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Former NFL GM Doug Whaley didn’t mince words, declaring,
“Jalen Ramsey’s not a lockdown corner anymore,” and suggesting the Steelers should rethink his role.
Statistically, Ramsey has allowed completions on 25 of 38 targets for 296 yards and a 104.7 passer rating—numbers far below his career standards. Some analysts argue that the Steelers’ decision to use him all over the secondary, including at nickel and safety, may be spreading him too thin.
Controversy Over Officiating
Ramsey hasn’t shied away from controversy, either. After the Bengals game, he openly criticized the officiating, claiming superstar receivers get away with “sh*t like that” and urging his teammates to focus on execution rather than bad calls. His fiery comments reflect both his competitive drive and the mounting frustration within the Steelers’ locker room.
What’s Next for Ramsey and the Steelers?
With the AFC North race tightening, the Steelers desperately need Ramsey to return to form—both physically and mentally. Whether he suits up against the Browns or waits another week, all eyes will be on how he responds to adversity.
If Ramsey can shake off the injury and silence his critics, Pittsburgh’s gamble may yet pay off. But if his struggles continue, the trade that once looked like a coup could become a cautionary tale about chasing past glory.
Key Takeaways:- Jalen Ramsey’s Steelers tenure has been marred by injury and inconsistent play.
- He’s pushing to return from a hamstring injury but remains questionable for Week 6.
- Critics question whether he’s still an elite corner, citing declining stats and blown coverages.
- Ramsey’s leadership and attitude remain strong, but the pressure is on for a turnaround.
Sources
1. Steelers Get Massive Jalen Ramsey Injury News - Sports Illustrated
2. Is Jalen Ramsey trade a real possibility? - Silver And Black Pride
3. Former GM: Jalen Ramsey's 'Not A Lockdown Corner Anymore ...
4. Vikings OTA Updates & Ramsey Buzz | Daily Norseman
5. Steelers' Jalen Ramsey Exposed Questionable Officiating Following ...
6. Minkah Fitzpatrick traded to Dolphins from Steelers in Jalen Ramsey ...
7. Jalen Ramsey makes something clear about referees and ... - Bolavip
8. Run game wrinkles, tight end trends, and key injuries before the bye
9. Steelers grades: One bad night for Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay Jr.
10. Miami Dolphins Rumor Mill - NBC Sports - NBC Sports
11. Jalen Ramsey wows Steelers with on-field production — and the fact ...
12. Jalen Ramsey trade rumors: June 1 implications as Dolphins DC ...
13. Film Room: Jalen Ramsey Gets Smoked By Bengals' Dynamic Duo
14. Jalen Ramsey trade package shows Rams should've gotten more in ...
15. NFL Trade: Pittsburgh Steelers acquire Jalen Ramsey, send Minkah ...
16. PFF praises Steelers for offseason additions - Behind the Steel Curtain
17. Real season upon us - 247 Sports
