Steelers’ Super Bowl Champion Makes Feelings Clear on GM Omar Khan’s Risky Move to Trade for Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith

The Pittsburgh Steelers have dominated NFL headlines in recent weeks, thanks to a series of bold moves led by general manager Omar Khan.

The latest splash came as the team finalized a blockbuster trade, sending star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick back to his original team, the Miami Dolphins, in exchange for cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith.

This aggressive approach has sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some questioning the timing of such moves while the contract status of star pass rusher T.J. Watt remains unresolved.

Amid the chatter, a respected former Steelers player, who was part of the Super Bowl 43-winning squad, has weighed in with a strong endorsement of Khan’s leadership.

Former Steelers Player Praises Aggressive Approach

There has been plenty of discussion about the trade that saw Fitzpatrick return to the Dolphins, while the Steelers added Ramsey and Smith. On one side, analysts like Damien Woody, have questioned why the Steelers are making such moves when Watt’s contract situation has not yet been settled.

However, the perspective of former Steelers safety Ryan Clark, who played for the team from 2006 to 2013 and is now an ESPN analyst, has added a new layer to the conversation. Clark, a member of the Super Bowl 43-winning team, spoke highly of Khan and the direction he is taking the franchise.

I’ll give Steelers’ General Manager Omar Khan this… he is trying to effing win! I respect dude so much. Waited his turn, watched the groceries get made one way for a long time, & came in with new & fresh ideas. That’s hard to do! I love the aggression from a New Orleans guy!

— Ryan Clark (@Realrclark25) July 1, 2025

Clark makes a strong case for Khan’s leadership style, pointing out that the general manager is trying to win now. He highlights Khan’s patience and willingness to bring new ideas to the organization. Clark’s comments reflect a clear shift from how the Steelers operated under previous leadership.

A Change in Philosophy

Former Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert, who served the team in various roles from 2000 to 2022, including director of football operations, general manager, and vice president, was known for a more conservative approach.

During Colbert’s tenure, the team rarely made splashy free-agent signings or trades, but still managed to win two Super Bowl titles.

With Khan at the helm, the Steelers have shown a greater willingness to make bold moves. The team has signed quarterback Aaron Rodgers, traded for wide receiver D.K. Metcalf, and now completed the deal for Ramsey and Smith. These moves signal a clear change in philosophy for the franchise.

Khan’s first true draft as general manager in 2023 also demonstrated his aggressive style. He moved up from No. 17 overall to No. 14 to select offensive tackle Broderick Jones, giving up a first-round and a fourth-round pick in the process. This willingness to pursue targeted players is a departure from the Steelers’ traditional approach.

As the team continues to reshape its roster, the question remains whether Khan’s aggressive strategy will pay off with a possible Super Bowl 60 title. Only time will tell if these moves will translate into postseason success for the Steelers.