Category: Minkah Fitzpatrick

Minkah Fitzpatrick, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ star safety, has been a cornerstone of the defense since his arrival in 2019. Known for his knack for game-changing plays, Fitzpatrick’s ability to disrupt offenses earned him All-Pro honors and established him as one of the NFL’s elite defenders.

However, since his standout 2022 season, Fitzpatrick’s production in generating big plays—interceptions, forced fumbles, and defensive touchdowns—has noticeably tapered off.

A quiet stretch for Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick

In 2022, Fitzpatrick’s playmaking was on full display, leading the league with six interceptions and earning him his third Pro Bowl nod. His instincts and ball skills consistently swung momentum in Pittsburgh’s favor. Fast forward to 2024, and while Fitzpatrick remains a reliable presence in the secondary, the splash plays that once defined his game have been few and far between.

Through the past two seasons, Fitzpatrick has yet to record an interception, an unusual stat line for a player of his caliber. With four games allowing 100% completion by quarterbacks, Fitzpatrick has permitted a 79.4% completion percentage average, the highest of his career.

While Fitzpatrick is still contributing with solid tackling (67 through Week 13), fans and analysts alike have noted the absence of the highlight-reel moments that once set the $21 million safety apart.

Fitzpatrick recently defended his lack of splash plays saying, “I can’t tell QBs to throw at me. I can’t abandon my zone… I keep a lid on it, make sure nothing goes over the top or turns 10 yards into 50.”

What’s up with the decline of Minkah Fitzpatrick?

Several factors could explain Fitzpatrick’s drop in big plays. One is the evolving role he’s taken on in the Steelers’ defense. In recent seasons, Fitzpatrick has been tasked with more deep-field responsibilities, often serving as the last line of defense. This positioning, while critical, limits his opportunities to jump routes or attack the ball.

Another factor is the improved depth in Pittsburgh’s secondary. With more talent around him, offenses may avoid Fitzpatrick altogether, targeting weaker matchups instead. Still, even with fewer chances, the expectation for Fitzpatrick remains high.

Minkah Fitzpatrick remains a defensive anchor

It’s important to remember that Fitzpatrick’s value extends beyond big plays. He’s a leader on the field, setting the tone for the defense with his football IQ and versatility. Even without the gaudy stats, Fitzpatrick’s presence forces offenses to account for him on every snap.

The Steelers are in the playoff hunt, and there’s plenty of football left this season. If history is any indication, Fitzpatrick has the talent and drive to deliver when it matters most. For now, the Steelers faithful will keep an eye on their star safety, hoping to see his trademark game-changing moments return.

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Cleveland Browns Nick Chubb is six months removed from a devastating knee injury that sidelined him for the 2023 season and required two surgeries.

Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick was in on the tackle and calls of “dirty player” erupted from media and fans in the days and weeks after.

Browns defensive end Myles Garrett defended Fitzpatrick the week following the injury and, most recently, safety D’Anthony Bell did the same.

“I don’t think it was a dirty hit ’cause I don’t think he intentionally tried to do that,” Bell said on the My Dawgs Podcast. “A lot of people like fans; they ain’t never been in the position where you are in full pads trying to tackle Nick Chubb. You ain’t never been in that position, going through the hole, and you see Nick Chubb right in front of you. That’s not an easy thing to execute. I think he was just trying to make a tackle on Chubb and it ended up happening.”

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