Minkah Fitzpatrick makes confession on messy Steelers exit

Former Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick has offered new context surrounding the final seasons of his decorated tenure with the organization.

Pittsburgh acquired Fitzpatrick from the Miami Dolphins in September 2019, and he became a centerpiece of its defense. He earned five Pro Bowl selections and three first-team All-Pro honors with the Steelers.

Fitzpatrick produced fewer takeaways late in his Pittsburgh tenure. He recorded one interception across the 2023 and 2024 seasons after tying for the NFL lead with six in 2022.

The Steelers traded Fitzpatrick back to the Dolphins in June 2025 in the deal that brought Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith to Pittsburgh. The Dolphins also received a 2027 fifth-round pick while sending Pittsburgh a 2027 seventh-round selection.

Steelers reporter Matthew Luciow shared a segment Tuesday on X, formerly Twitter, from Fitzpatrick’s appearance on The Pivot podcast. The veteran safety discussed his frustration with how Pittsburgh used him during the final years of his tenure.

“In Pittsburgh I definitely regret the way I handled the situation. When I first got there they just plugged me in at post safety half safety. And I played well there. After awhile quarterbacks aren’t going to be throwing you the ball a whole lot And I kind of got pushed into that role. People forgot that what I was known for was my versatility and doing different things. I’m a good football player so no matter where you put me on the field I’m going to be a good football player. But I think where my capabilities are maximized is when I could do different things.”

Minkah Fitzpatrick on his biggest regret in Pittsburgh:

"In Pittsburgh I definitely regret the way I handled the situation. When I first got there they just plugged me in at post safety half safety. And I played well there. After awhile quarterbacks aren't going to be throwing… pic.twitter.com/aKPJLoKySO

— Matthew Luciow (@matthewluciow92) August 11, 2026

Fitzpatrick said he best utilized his abilities when he could change assignments, including playing deep, working in a half-field alignment, or rushing off the edge. He believes remaining in one role reduced his opportunities to produce game-changing plays.

The 29-year-old now has another opportunity with the New York Jets, who acquired him from the Dolphins in March for a 2026 seventh-round pick and signed the former Steelers safety to a three-year, $40 million contract.

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