One year after Omar Khan's blockbuster trade, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins' decision to part ways with Minkah Fitzpatrick and Jonnu Smith, respectively, has not aged well. The trade, which saw the Steelers acquire All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith, along with a 2027 seventh-round pick, in exchange for Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round pick, has been scrutinized for its perceived value.
Fitzpatrick, a safety, and Smith, a tight end, were both released by their respective teams for different reasons. The Dolphins embarked on a rebuild, letting go of their head coach, general manager, and starting quarterback, making it clear that Fitzpatrick's high price tag was no longer justified. Meanwhile, the Steelers, still in their competitive window, decided that Smith's poor performance and high salary were not aligned with their future plans.
Smith's individual stats were underwhelming, and his inefficiency on the field had a ripple effect on the team's overall performance. Pat Freiermuth's underutilization was a significant factor, and Smith's high annual value of over $12 million made it a costly decision to continue with him in 2026. The trade's impact on the Steelers' dead money ledger is significant, with $10.73 million owed between Fitzpatrick and Smith.
The comparison between Fitzpatrick and Ramsey is complex due to their different positions. However, a closer look at their 2025 season stats reveals a near-identical performance. Fitzpatrick, in 14 games, contributed 82 total tackles, four TFL, a sack, six passes defensed, an INT, and a forced fumble, while Ramsey, playing in 17 games, accumulated 88 total tackles, four TFL, three sacks, eight passes defensed, and an INT.
The trade's value is further questioned by the Steelers' decision to give up a 2027 fifth-round pick, especially considering the depth and talent of the upcoming draft class. If the trade were to be re-evaluated with the benefit of hindsight, it's unlikely that the Steelers would accept the same terms.
However, the story is not yet fully written. Ramsey's potential to excel in his new role as a STAR defensive back in Pittsburgh's system could be transformative. The defensive staff's plans to 'weaponize' him, drawing inspiration from Charles Woodson's late-career success, offer a glimmer of hope.
A strong season from Ramsey would be crucial in salvaging the trade's reputation. Otherwise, Omar Khan's decision-making as the Steelers' general manager will be questioned, and the trade may be viewed as a significant setback in his tenure.
