The Pittsburgh Steelers’ trade for Jalen Ramsey is the type of trade that rarely happens in the NFL.
When the Steelers traded for Ramsey and Jonnu Smith with Minkah Fitzpatrick going back the other way, it was the first time since 2002 that two players with five or more Pro Bowls were traded for one another.
“From CBS Sports Research: Minkah and Jalen’s swap marks the first time since at least 2002 where two 5+ time Pro-Bowlers were traded for each other since 2002.” Jonathan Jones of CBS wrote.
The NFL simply does not usually see star-for-star trades like the NBA does, for example. Ramsey and Fitzpatrick being swapped is a huge deal in the NFL, and one that showcases just how willing the Steelers were to break the traditional model to land playmakers.
Ramsey will turn 31 in October, while Fitzpatrick will turn 29 in November. So, the Steelers did get older, but Ramsey’s elite level of play has continued at a traditionally extremely volatile position. Not in Ramsey’s case, though.
The Steelers will likely use Ramsey as a chess piece who plays safety, slot cornerback, and outside cornerback whenever asked by the team.
That versatility will allow the Steelers to have Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay, and Ramsey all on the field simultaneously in a way they could not execute beforehand.
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