Steelers linked to Jalen Ramsey in June 2025 trade rumors while T.J. Watt's contract standoff continues. Is Pittsburgh about to shake up its defense?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The quiet before the storm of training camp was shattered Friday by tantalizing trade rumors linking the Steelers to star cornerback Jalen Ramsey. While reports confirmed no deal is imminent, the buzz highlights a front office clearly on the hunt for secondary help. But as fans dreamt of a lockdown corner, a more pressing reality loomed: the continued contract standoff with defensive cornerstone T.J. Watt, whose absence from minicamp has left a cloud of uncertainty over the team's preparations.
He's been awesome... a guy that's seen it all, done it all. So just trying to soak it all up.
Speculation ran wild on Friday about a potential trade for Dolphins CB Jalen Ramsey, a move that would instantly upgrade the Steelers' secondary. While sources confirmed no deal has been finalized, the fact that Pittsburgh is in the conversation speaks volumes about their aggressive approach to the 2025 season. The urgency is amplified by moves within the division, as noted on 'The Depot 180' podcast, with the rival Baltimore Ravens reportedly signing star corner Jaire Alexander. The AFC North arms race is in full swing, and the Steelers know they need more firepower opposite Joey Porter Jr. to compete.
While the front office may be exploring external additions, their most critical negotiation remains internal. T.J. Watt's decision to skip mandatory minicamp sent a clear message: he wants a new contract before rejoining the team. With training camp just over a month away, the stalemate is the single biggest storyline hanging over the team. Watt is the engine of the defense, and his presence is non-negotiable for a team with championship aspirations. The pressure is mounting on both sides to bridge the gap and ensure No. 90 is on the field in Latrobe.
On the other side of the ball, the vibes are decidedly more positive. Rookie QB Will Howard showered praise on Aaron Rodgers, calling the veteran's mentorship 'awesome' and describing a 'good vibe' in the quarterback room. This positive dynamic is crucial as the offense integrates its new leader. To support Rodgers, the team is reportedly eyeing another veteran wide receiver to add depth behind DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III. This search is made possible by recent roster moves, including the release of running back Jonathan Ward. Ward's departure, after four games as a special teamer last season, leaves the Steelers with two open roster spots to fill before camp begins.
As the summer lull continues, the front office is anything but quiet. The next month will be defined by two major questions: Will Omar Khan pull off a blockbuster trade for a cornerback, and will he and T.J. Watt find common ground on a new contract? The answers will shape the Steelers' Super Bowl aspirations as all eyes turn to Saint Vincent College for the start of training camp on July 23.
