Earlier this week, the Denver Broncos made headlines by extending cornerback Patrick Surtain’s contract, making him the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history. However, that title was short-lived. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Miami Dolphins have now surpassed the Broncos’ deal by agreeing to a record-setting extension with their own star cornerback, Jalen Ramsey.
Ramsey’s new three-year extension will pay him an average of $24.1 million annually, just edging out Surtain’s $24 million per year. In addition, Ramsey is expected to earn $55.3 million this season, solidifying him as the highest-earning cornerback in NFL history over the course of his career. This marks the second time in Ramsey’s career that he has held the title of the highest-paid player at his position.
The contract negotiations have been in the works for weeks, with both sides likely waiting to see the terms of Surtain’s deal before finalizing Ramsey’s. The Dolphins were determined to make their star defender the top-paid cornerback once again.
Currently dealing with a calf injury, there is optimism that Ramsey will be ready for the Dolphins’ season opener against one of his former teams, the Jacksonville Jaguars. Injuries plagued Ramsey’s first season in Miami, limiting him to just 10 games after being traded from the Los Angeles Rams. However, his performance was still strong enough to earn him another Pro Bowl selection.
Now entering his ninth NFL season, Ramsey is expected to play a critical role in the Dolphins’ defense, especially given that their pass rush has been impacted by injuries heading into the season. The Florida State alum will be a key player in defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver’s game plan as the Dolphins aim to capitalize on Ramsey’s elite talent.
