Minkah Fitzpatrick is an American football safety who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Miami Dolphins with the 11th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Fitzpatrick is a three-time Pro Bowler and three-time first-team All-Pro selection. He has also been named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2022.
Early Life and College Career
Minkah Fitzpatrick was born in Old Bridge, New Jersey, on August 17, 1996. He attended St. Peter's Preparatory School in Elizabeth, New Jersey, where he played football, basketball, and lacrosse. Fitzpatrick was a highly regarded recruit and was selected to play in the Under Armour All-America Game.
Fitzpatrick committed to play college football at the University of Alabama. He played in all 13 games as a freshman in 2015 and was named the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Defensive Freshman of the Year. Fitzpatrick was also named a unanimous first-team All-American in 2016.
Professional Career
Minkah Fitzpatrick was drafted by the Miami Dolphins with the 11th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. He started all 16 games for the Dolphins in 2018 and recorded 82 tackles, three interceptions, and two fumble recoveries.
In 2019, Fitzpatrick was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers. He started all 16 games for the Steelers in 2019 and recorded 91 tackles, five interceptions, and two fumble recoveries. Fitzpatrick was named to his first Pro Bowl and was a first-team All-Pro selection.
In 2020, Fitzpatrick started all 16 games for the Steelers and recorded 74 tackles, two interceptions, and two fumble recoveries. He was again named to the Pro Bowl and was a first-team All-Pro selection.
In 2021, Fitzpatrick missed five games due to injury, but he still managed to record 65 tackles, one interception, and one fumble recovery. He was named to his third Pro Bowl.
In 2022, Fitzpatrick started all 17 games for the Steelers and recorded 127 tackles, four interceptions, and three fumble recoveries. He was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Fitzpatrick's Impact on the Steelers
Minkah Fitzpatrick has been a transformative player for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is a versatile defensive back who can play both safety and cornerback. He is also a ball-hawking playmaker who has a knack for making big plays.
Fitzpatrick's presence has made the Steelers' defense one of the best in the NFL. He is a leader on and off the field and is respected by his teammates and coaches.
Fitzpatrick's Future
Minkah Fitzpatrick is still just 26 years old and is entering the prime of his career. He is signed with the Steelers through the 2025 season. If he can stay healthy, there is no doubt that he will continue to be one of the best defensive backs in the NFL.
Conclusion
Minkah Fitzpatrick is a generational talent who has the potential to be one of the best defensive backs in NFL history. He is a versatile playmaker who is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Fitzpatrick is also a leader on and off the field and is respected by his teammates and coaches. The Pittsburgh Steelers are lucky to have Minkah Fitzpatrick on their team, and he is sure to be a key player for them for many years to come.