Jalen Ramsey, renowned as one of the premier cornerbacks in today’s NFL, expressed strong objections to comparisons between him and Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs. Following his Super Bowl victory with the LA Rams in 2022, Ramsey clarified on The Pivot Podcast the fundamental differences between their playing styles.
Ramsey stated,
“I ain’t gonna lie, I hate it when people compare me and Trevon,”
emphasizing,
“We play completely different. I always play out of phase, he always plays in phase.”
This distinction highlights contrasting defensive tactics that separate the two athletes.
Understanding the Styles and Performance of Both Corners
During the conversation, Ryan Clark noted that Diggs allowed over 1,000 yards in coverage during the 2021 season. Ramsey defended Diggs’ approach by pointing to his ability to generate interceptions. He said,
“That’s because he always plays in phase, but he also had 11, 12, maybe 13 picks. That’s crazy.”
He continued,
“He plays different. He plays in phase. It’s a different style of how he plays. I agree, if you are a guy who plays in phase a lot like he does, you’re gonna have to have a lot of picks, which he does. He does, so it’s working out for him. He’s one of the best at doing that. Same with J.C. (Jackson).”
This explanation sheds light on the strategic contrasts between Ramsey’s more aggressive, out-of-phase technique and Diggs’ in-phase approach that produces turnovers despite some yardage allowed.
Potential Reunion with the Dallas Cowboys as Trade Talks Heat Up
Rumors have surfaced that the Dallas Cowboys may pursue a trade for Ramsey, aiming to bolster their defensive lineup. As Miami contemplates trade options for Ramsey, who brings nine years of NFL experience, Dallas appears as a strong candidate to acquire him.
A Ramsey acquisition would create a formidable defensive partnership alongside Diggs, potentially transforming the Cowboys’ secondary. In the 2024 season, Ramsey recorded 60 tackles, one sack, 11 passes defended, and two interceptions while Miami finished with an 8-9 record and missed the playoffs.
Meanwhile, Diggs, selected 51st overall in the 2020 NFL Draft, is gearing up for his sixth season with Dallas in 2025. The prospect of their reunion raises high expectations for upgraded defensive performance.
What a Cowboy-Ramsey Collaboration Could Mean
If the trade materializes, combining Ramsey’s out-of-phase style with Diggs’ ball-hawking in-phase defense would give Dallas a diverse and dynamic secondary. This pairing could significantly enhance the team’s pass coverage capabilities and strengthen their chances of playoff success in upcoming seasons.
With both players recognized as elite cornerbacks operating differently yet effectively, the Cowboys’ defensive backfield could become one of the league’s most formidable features, elevating the franchise’s competitive standing.