4 reasons why Steelers fans should be worried about Minkah Fitzpatrick
By Tommy Jaggi
Fitzpatrick has graded out poorly
It’s been a rough start for Fitzpatrick early in the 2020 season. Some NFL analysts had discussions this offseason about whether or not Minkah was the best defender on the Steelers. After seeing T.J. Watt dominate on nearly every play and Fitzpatrick fall short too often, those arguments should quickly be put to rest.
In just the first three games, Fitzpatrick has allowed 4 of 6 receptions to be completed for 42 yards and an 86.8 passer rating. While this is respectable, it’s a far cry from his 46.3 passer rating allowed last year, and he hasn’t earned as much as one pass defense in the early going.
As a result, Fitzpatrick has graded out as just the 59th ranked safety out of 78 qualifying players in 2020 through three weeks, according to Pro Football Focus. His 51.2 overall grade is the lowest of his career so far, and put’s him just slightly above fellow Steelers safety, Terrell Edmunds (48.6 grade).
A three-game sample size isn’t the most trustworthy source of data, but he certainly hasn’t looked like a Pro Bowl player early in the season. Let’s hope he turns it around soon.