How could potential extensions effect Steelers cap situation beyond 2021?

Minkah Fitzpatrick

Like Watt, it is very unlikely the team lets Minkah Fitzpatrick hit free agency in the offseason. Alongside Watt, Fitzpatrick is the lynchpin of the defense, as he anchors the secondary, while Watt spends most of his time in the backfield.

Fitzpatrick was the missing piece on the Steelers defensive unit, as he has provided them with the ability to force turnovers in the secondary. His playmaking ability is something the team had lacked since Troy Polamalu retired. For a while, it looked as if Ryan Shazier would be the piece that filled the playmaking void, however his spinal injury robbed him of continuing his NFL career. The team has had a top pass rush for several years now, however, the secondary was suspect before Fitzpatrick arrived in Pittsburgh.

Like Watt, Fitzpatrick is among the best at his position, and still in his prime, thus won’t come cheap and will likely set the record for the highest contract at the position. Justin Simmons has the highest AAV of any safety in the league as he signed a four-year, $61 million extension, with $35 million guaranteed, per Spotrac. Look for Fitzpatrick’s extension to top those numbers.

Since being acquired via trade from the Dolphins, Fitzpatrick has 136 tackles, nine interceptions, two forced fumbles, and 20 pass deflections, according to Pro Football Reference. Combine trading away a first-round pick to acquire him, and his high level of play, and it’s hard to imagine the Steelers letting him get away.

Prediction: Re-signs 5 year, 82.5 million deal, with $41.25 million guaranteed