Jalen Ramsey expressed his motivation for a quick return from knee surgery three months ago. That goal may be fully realized come Sunday afternoon.
The Miami Dolphins activated Ramsey off injured reserve on Saturday, clearing the way for the All-Pro cornerback to potentially make his season debut against the New England Patriots.
NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe reports that Ramsey will play if all goes well in pre-game workouts.
The recovery timeline has been simply remarkable for Ramsey, who went under the knife for a torn meniscus in his left knee on July 28. Three months later, the 28-year-old is gearing up to play after initially being expected to be back by December for a potential playoff push.
It would not only be a 2023 debut for Ramsey but his first game with the Dolphins, who acquired the All-Pro CB in a blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Rams early this offseason.
Ramsey is thought to be the missing piece for a talent-rich defense that has given up 26.7 points per game through seven weeks (26th in the NFL). Having him lock down one side of the field could do wonders for a pass rush that already ranks third in the NFL with 24.0 sacks, and his veteran presence may be the missing voice within a young secondary that’s dealt with injuries all season.
For a team that already boasts the NFL’s No. 1 ranked offense in scoring (34.3 PPG), passing yards (300.0 YPG) and rushing yards (162.3 YPG), the Dolphins’ defense rounding into form by virtue of Ramsey’s return is a scary proposition for other contenders.
In a corresponding move to Ramsey’s activation, the Dolphins released Parry Nickerson on Saturday. Ramsey playing Sunday would be a boost for a Dolphins secondary that won’t have safety Jevon Holland, who was downgraded to out with a concussion. Dolphins CBs Xavien Howard (groin) and CB Nik Needham (Achilles) are also listed as questionable for Sunday’s game.
