Minkah Fitzpatrick Opens Up About Steelers Departure

Minkah Fitzpatrick took the field Monday in a Miami Dolphins uniform, back where his NFL career began — and this time, he is hoping it’s for good.

The All-Pro safety had remained silent following his June 30 trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers, prompting questions about whether he was upset with the move.

But when he finally addressed the media, Fitzpatrick made clear that his lack of comment was not a sign of discontent.

He expressed appreciation for his time in Pittsburgh but made it clear his focus is now in Miami. After five Pro Bowl seasons and three All-Pro nods with the Steelers, Fitzpatrick said he’s grown significantly as a leader and communicator since he first left South Florida in 2019.

“I appreciated my time in Pittsburgh. It’s unfortunate. But it’s business,” Fitzpatrick said, as transcribed by Behind the Steel Curtain.

Now reunited with the team that drafted him 11th overall in 2018, Fitzpatrick seems determined to establish stability. He and the Dolphins recently restructured his deal to include a $16.245 million signing bonus, boosting his 2025 earnings and opening the door for a long-term extension. Fitzpatrick has made it clear he is seeking more than just a one-year stop.

“I just wanted to know I was going to be here for more than a season,” he said.

Since rejoining the Dolphins, Fitzpatrick has already made an impression on the field, snagging the team’s first interception of training camp. Teammates like Jaylen Waddle praised his leadership and energy, calling him the kind of presence the entire defense rallies around.

Whether or not a new contract is finalized soon, Fitzpatrick’s return has added both talent and experience to a Miami defense that suddenly looks a lot more dangerous.

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