Minkah Fitzpatrick

Minkah Fitzpatrick's Biography

Minkah Annane Fitzpatrick Jr., born on November 17, 1996, is an American professional football safety currently playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League (NFL). With a steep trajectory and exceptional performance level in the league, Fitzpatrick is one of the most talked-about players of his generation.

Growing up in New Jersey, he attended St. Peter’s Preparatory School, where he excelled as a wide receiver on offense and a defensive back on defense while playing high school football for the Marauders. Notably, in 2014, he caught 45 passes, covering 1,111 yards and making 12 touchdowns. Additionally, on the defensive side, he recorded 70 tackles and three interceptions, showcasing his versatility. Fitzpatrick’s athletic prowess also extended to track and field, as evidenced by his impressive speed records in the 100 and 200 meters.

In his high school years, Fitzpatrick was admired and sought-after by many college scouts. Famed sports television channel ESPN.com listed him as a five-star recruit, ranking him as the No. 4 cornerback in the nation in 2015. After being verbally committed to Alabama for almost a year, Fitzpatrick signed with Alabama on the National Signing Day in 2015.

As a true freshman, Fitzpatrick proved to be a vital asset to Alabama’s Crimson Tide. He started 10 out of 14 games, and despite having to sit out one game due to injury, he recorded 45 total tackles, three for a loss, two sacks, two interceptions. His outstanding rookie season was marked by Alabama’s victory over Clemson, which secured the National Championship. His performance earned him recognition as a Freshman All-American by The Sporting News.

In his sophomore year, Fitzpatrick kept up his stellar performance, even breaking the Alabama Crimson Tide record for the longest interception returned for a touchdown in a match against ranked Arkansas. His achievements during his time in Alabama placed him in the college football spotlight, and many began to speculate about his prospects in the NFL.

In January 2018, after winning his second national championship and numerous awards, Fitzpatrick decided to forgo his remaining eligibility at Alabama and declared his entry to the 2018 NFL draft. NFL analyst Mel Kiper Jr., along with other experts and scouts, projected Fitzpatrick to be a first-round pick, citing his versatility and athletic prowess.

Fitzpatrick was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the first round of the 2018 NFL draft. The Dolphins signed Fitzpatrick into a fully guaranteed four-year, $16.4 million contract. During his tenure with the Dolphins, despite being primarily used as a backup safety, Fitzpatrick left a significant impact. He recorded 80 total tackles, two interceptions, and nine passes defended in his rookie season. However, after playing out of position and expressing his dissatisfaction with how the coaches utilized him, Fitzpatrick requested to be traded from the Dolphins.

In September 2019, Fitzpatrick’s trade request was fulfilled, and he was sent to the Pittsburgh Steelers. He quickly made his mark, intercepting a pass from San Francisco 49ers’ quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo in his debut match with the Steelers. Through the seasons, Fitzpatrick delivered consistent and excellent performance, leading the Steelers to multiple victories and earning him recognition as one of the best safeties in the league.

In 2021, the Steelers picked up the fifth-year option on Fitzpatrick’s contract, ensuring his place in the team. The following year, they signed him to a four-year $73.6 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid safety in the NFL. Over the years, Fitzpatrick has received numerous accolades, including Pro Bowl honors and the 2024 Bart Starr Award. He has also been consistently ranked high in the NFL Top 100 Players list.

Off the field, Fitzpatrick is a devout Christian. His faith is an integral part of his life, guiding his actions and decisions throughout his football career. From his high school days in New Jersey to his pro career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Minkah Fitzpatrick Jr. has shown himself to be an incredibly skillful and dedicated football player. With his talent for making the right moves at the right times, Fitzpatrick’s journey in the NFL remains a story to watch.