Latest news makes Steelers look extremely smart
One of the biggest priorities for the Pittsburgh Steelers before this season was to get a long-term extension done for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. In June, Fitzpatrick signed a monster four-year deal worth $73.6 million, making him the highest-paid safety in NFL history at the time. With that kind of salary comes immense expectations, and the […]
One of the biggest priorities for the Pittsburgh Steelers before this season was to get a long-term extension done for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. In June, Fitzpatrick signed a monster four-year deal worth $73.6 million, making him the highest-paid safety in NFL history at the time.
With that kind of salary comes immense expectations, and the former first-round pick delivered. Fitzpatrick logged the second-most of his career with 96. Also, his 11 passes defended tied a career-high, while his six interceptions set a new personal best and were tied for the NFL lead.
Fitzpatrick's performance in 2022 got him a familiar honor. For the third time since entering the NFL, Fitzpatrick was named a first-team All-Pro.
"I think I put a lot of hard work, energy and effort in," said Fitzpatrick earlier this week. "I played through a lot this year. I'm appreciative of the guys. I don't like saying I, but what I've provided to the team, what I gave of myself to the team."
Fitzpatrick put himself in elite company with this selection. He and T.J. Watt are now the only players in Steelers' history with three All-Pro nods in their first five seasons in Pittsburgh. In addition to being named an All-Pro and a Pro Bowler, Fitzpatrick was named the Steelers MVP as well, making him the first safety to do since Hall of Famer Troy Polamalu in 2010.
Looking back on what's transpired since last summer, it's safe to say that the Steelers made the right decision keeping Fitzpatrick on the roster.
Feature image via Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
