Minkah Fitzpatrick addresses critics ahead of pivotal matchup
Minkah Fitzpatrick is set to make his return to Acrisure Stadium this week as the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for a crucial primetime clash against the Miami Dolphins. The game carries significant weight in the AFC playoff race, and while Fitzpatrick was traded from the Steelers to the Dolphins this past offseason, he is focused solely on the upcoming challenge rather than personal narratives.
“I’m extremely excited to be a Miami Dolphin,” Fitzpatrick stated, emphasizing the importance of the game itself. “The only reason why it’s a big week this week is because we got a game and, uh, we got to win it.”
Reflecting on His Time in Pittsburgh
Drafted by the Dolphins in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Fitzpatrick was traded to Pittsburgh ahead of Week 3 in 2019. The move brought a hefty return for Miami, which included a first-round pick in 2020. During his six seasons with the Steelers, Fitzpatrick solidified his status as one of the league’s premier safeties, racking up 18 interceptions while earning five Pro Bowl selections and being named a first-team All-Pro three times.
In June, Fitzpatrick found himself back in Miami, just weeks before training camp, as part of a trade that also saw Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith head to Pittsburgh. Reflecting on his departure, he expressed gratitude towards the city and his former teammates, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of his exit.
“I want to thank the city of Pittsburgh, the fans of Pittsburgh, you guys treated me very well,” he said. “I enjoyed my time there and I played with some great teammates. I was very unfortunate the way things ended, but it’s a part of the business. And I’m extremely, extremely excited to be a Miami Dolphin.”
Evaluating the Trade Outcomes
When the trade initially occurred, Pittsburgh seemed to emerge as the clear winners, particularly when Miami struggled to a 1-7 start and subsequently fired their general manager, Chris Grier. However, with the Dolphins currently riding a four-game winning streak and holding a 6-7 record, the assessment of the trade remains up for debate.
Jalen Ramsey, who transitioned to safety for the Steelers in Week 9, has become a vital component of Pittsburgh’s defense. He has tallied 68 tackles, two sacks, and an interception over 13 games. Conversely, Jonnu Smith has struggled to find his footing in Pittsburgh, posting just 190 yards and two touchdowns from 30 receptions, a stark contrast to his career-high 884 receiving yards with the Dolphins last season.
Meanwhile, Fitzpatrick has made an impact in his return to Miami, starting all 13 games and compiling 76 tackles, along with two fumble recoveries, a forced fumble, and an interception. As both teams gear up for their decisive encounter, the narrative surrounding Fitzpatrick’s trade continues to evolve, keeping fans and analysts alike on the edge of their seats.
