Steelers insiders describe the decision as “complicated” because Ramsey’s versatility and leadership carry significant value for the defense, potentially influencing turnover and personnel choices across 2026.
Kaboly noted that Ramsey thrived before being asked to play safety, and the production dip after that position change complicates the calculus. If the plan is to move him back to the slot while continuing to mentor Joey Porter Jr., keeping Ramsey becomes more appealing.
In 17 games last season, Ramsey posted 88 combined tackles with four for loss, added three sacks, eight pass defenses, and one interception, earning his eighth Pro Bowl nod despite some inconsistencies in coverage.
Fellow Steelers insider Gerry Dulac agreed with Kaboly that Ramsey’s future with Pittsburgh isn’t imminent, suggesting a path to keep him with cap adjustments as the salary cap grows significantly in coming years.
Ramsey has three years left on his contract, with the 2026 cap hit rising from about $4.9 million in 2025 to $17.229 million, and projected 2027–2028 cap figures topping roughly $31.049 million.
Overall, most projections point to the Steelers keeping Ramsey for at least 2026, balancing his value against the evolving cap landscape and the potential impact on their evolving secondary.
