Jaguars take big risk by playing Jalen Ramsey despite trade request

Arguably the league’s top corner has asked for a trade. The Jaguars are risking significant compensation by playing him Thursday night.

Jalen Ramsey wants out of Jacksonville but he will play for the Jaguars on Thursday night against the Tennessee Titans despite demanding a trade earlier in the week.

Head coach Doug Marrone announced Ramsey would suit up after there was a question if he would be inactive to preserve his trade value and avoid an injury.

While Ramsey will suit up is one thing, whether he gets the normal amount of reps he’s used to seeing will be another. It’ll be interesting to see if the Jaguars scale back his role in hopes of preserving him to make a deal this weekend. It makes sense to deal him during the mini-bye week a Thursday night game brings.

Marrone’s quote also hints that there are likely ongoing trade discussions and until the game is over, the focus is squarely on Tennessee. “Behind us right now” suggests both parties have agreed on circumstances that will keep both sides happy temporarily, but there’s still work to be done to ultimately reach a resolution.

With the recent trade of Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Steelers for a first round pick and more, the demands for Jalen Ramsey figure to be rich. According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the asking price is two first round picks.

Ramsey may be one of a few players who warrant that asking price. Which is why the Jaguars would have been wise to sit him out to prevent any risk of injury.