Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Darius Slay Jr. Shares Insight on Steelers’ Blockbuster Jalen Ramsey Acquisition

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ryan White | Last updated Jul 22, 2025 4:35 PM ET

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerbacks Darius Slay Jr. and Jalen Ramsey have known each other for some time, and there was some banter between them before the massive trade that brought them together as teammates.

Slay entered the league in 2013, while Ramsey was drafted in 2016, so their careers are almost aligned. Although they didn’t know for certain, Slay claims the two discussed the possibility of playing together before Ramsey was officially traded while he was speaking to Richard Sherman.

“It’s been good. Me and him been chatting the whole time, not knowing,” Slay said.

“I had a feeling that he was getting traded to us but not knowing what the trade was,” Slay said. “He called me a day before; we were just chopping it up. Like, ‘Hey, man, Slay, how it is over there? ’ Just giving him the updates and letting him know, ‘Man, it’s good over here. Just hard work, guys willing to learn. Giving him a little blueprint because he knew as much as I knew.”

It wasn’t surprising that Ramsey was traded, due to countless reports stating that the Miami Dolphins were set to move on, but it was unclear where he would land. With the Steelers seemingly entering a transition year, at least at the quarterback position, it makes sense for them to pursue Ramsey aggressively in hopes of a championship run.

Each player is typically used to being the dominant corner on the field; however, they are going to have to figure out how to play together. According to Slay, he’s not worried about that; he’s just excited that he gets to play alongside another elite talent.

“It’s gonna be great, man. I get to play alongside another All-Pro,” Slay said. It’s gonna be my first time doing this, so I’m looking forward to it, man. I’m excited, and we’re gonna see what we’re gonna do.”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: