4 reasons the Steelers already have the best defense in the NFL
By Tommy Jaggi
Minkah Fitzpatrick could be the most valuable player in the secondary
In terms of overall dominance and impact to the team, Minkah Fitzpatrick may not quite be on the same level as T.J. Watt, but he’s not that far behind either. In just his 3rd NFL season in 2020, Fitzpatrick became one of the youngest defensive players to ever be selected to 2 First-Team All-Pros, and he has the most takeaway-worthy plays of any defensive back in the NFL over the past two seasons.
Like Watt, Minkah’s name was also in the discussion for Defensive Player of the Year in 2019 and 2020 (although not as legitimate of a contender to come away with the reward). Still, Fitzpatrick has the potential to be the most valuable defensive back in the entire NFL, thanks to his natural instincts and nose for the football.
When targeting Fitzpatrick, things typically don’t turn out well for opposing quarterbacks. As a member of the Steelers in 2019 (14 games), opposing quarterbacks had a dismal 46.3 passer rating when throwing his direction, according to Pro Football Reference. That number improved to just 65.7 last season.
With the ability to play single-high and make plays all over the field, Fitzpatrick could be the most lethal player in the secondary in the NFL this year – helping the Steelers to the best defensive in the NFL.