American cornerback widely regarded as one of the NFL's elite defensive backs, known for his shutdown coverage and physical playing style.
Born in Smyrna, Tennessee, on December 23, 1994, Jalen Lattrel Ramsey emerged as a multi-sport athlete at Ensworth School in Nashville before committing to Florida State University. At FSU, he developed into one of college football's premier defensive backs, demonstrating exceptional versatility by playing cornerback, safety, and even contributing on offense. His collegiate career culminated in a national championship victory in 2013 and consensus All-American honors in 2015. The Jacksonville Jaguars selected Ramsey with the fifth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, where he immediately established himself as an elite cornerback. His rookie season featured a Pro Bowl selection, marking the beginning of five consecutive Pro Bowl appearances. Ramsey's peak years in Jacksonville included anchoring the defense that led the Jaguars to the AFC Championship Game in 2017, where his lockdown coverage and vocal leadership became defining characteristics. Following a highly publicized trade request, he was dealt to the Los Angeles Rams in October 2019 in exchange for two first-round picks and a fourth-round selection. Ramsey's defining achievement came during the 2021 season when he helped the Rams capture Super Bowl LVI, earning his first championship ring while neutralizing elite receivers throughout the playoffs. His contract extension with Los Angeles made him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history at the time, reflecting his status among the league's premier defensive players. He earned First-Team All-Pro honors in 2017 and has consistently ranked among the NFL's top cornerbacks in coverage metrics. Known for his physical style, exceptional ball skills, and ability to shadow opposing teams' top receivers, Ramsey has redefined the modern cornerback position. His combination of size, speed, and football intelligence allows him to excel in both man and zone coverage schemes. Beyond his on-field performance, Ramsey's outspoken personality and confidence have made him one of the NFL's most recognizable defensive players, influencing how elite cornerbacks approach both their craft and public personas.
Being one of the NFL's premier shutdown cornerbacks
How They Played
Aggressive press coverage, exceptional ball skills, physical at the line of scrimmage, versatile in coverage schemes
Lasting Impact
Considered one of the best cornerbacks of his generation with elite coverage skills and vocal leadership
Career Honours
- Super Bowl LVI Champion
- Pro Bowl 6x
- All-Pro 4x
- NFL defensive back of his generation
- 5× Pro Bowl
- 3× First-team All-Pro
- PFWA All-Rookie Team
| Team | Period | Games | Jersey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville Jaguars | 2016–2019 | 65 | #20 |
| Los Angeles Rams | 2019–2023 | 207 | #20 |
| Miami Dolphins | 2023–2024 | 17 | — |
| Pittsburgh Steelers | 2025– | — | — |