The Miami Dolphins are reportedly allowing defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick to seek a trade. Here’s why the Steelers should pounce on the opportunity.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a pickle. Sean Davis has barely stepped on the field since mid-way through training camp, and Kameron Kelly had a disastrous night on Sunday against the Patriots.
Kelly’s 29.0 overall grade from Pro Football Focus was one of the lowest single-game grades I have seen in quite some time. Meanwhile, Sean Davis continues to build leverage in his negotiations for a new contract.
Fortunately, there may be a solution to all of this.
Last night, Chris Mortenson of ESPN reported that Dolphins have given defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick permission to seek a trade:
The Dolphins have granted permission to DB Minkah Fitzpatrick to seek a trade, according to multiple sources who say Miami's asking price is too high. Dolphins have no comment. Story coming with help from @CameronWolfe
— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) September 13, 2019
Fitzpatrick was a highly-touted player coming out of the 2018 NFL Draft, and Miami spent the 11th overall pick on the former Alabama defensive back.
Minkah had an impressive combination of size and speed at the NFL Combine, and he was considered one of the few blue-chip players in the draft.
Now entering just his second NFL season, Fitzpatrick is officially on the trade block. The Dolphins defensive back had a poor showing in week one against the Ravens, but then again, who didn’t.
With three cheap years left on his rookie contract plus the 5th-year option, Fitzpatrick is certainly an intriguing candidate.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are undoubtedly in a Super Bowl window, and their current safety depth couldn’t be worse. The Dolphins are reportedly asking too much for the former 1st round pick.
However, this shouldn’t deter the Steelers from attempting to make a move for Fitzpatrick. He would provide much-needed depth in the defensive backfield, as he has the flexibility to play either safety position as well as slot cornerback. Minkah had a solid rookie season last year where he recorded 80 tackles, 9 pass defenses 2 interceptions and a defensive touchdown.
This certainly doesn’t seem like the type of move the Steelers typically make. However, players like Fitzpatrick rarely become available for trade. Pittsburgh should seriously consider making an offer for the former 11th overall pick.