Despite losing their starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger for the rest of the year, Pittsburgh Steelers are not giving up on this season yet. In an unexpected move, the team went on and acquired cornerback Minkah Fitzpatrick from the Miami Dolphins.
As part of the trade, Steelers sent 2020 first-round pick, 2020 fifth-rounder, and 2021 sixth-round pick to Miami. In exchange, Pittsburgh got Fitzpatrick, 2020 fourth-round pick, and 2021 seventh-round pick.
Steelers confirmed the deal on Tuesday and made the official announcement on their social media.
“We are very excited to add Minkah to our defense,” – said Steelers general manager and vice president Kevin Colbert in a statement. “We had him rated very high during the 2018 NFL draft process, and we thought that he could be an impact player in this league.”
It was reported last week that Minkah Fitzpatrick wants to leave the Miami Dolphins, being unpleased with the way he has been used at the start of the season. Dolphins granted him permission to seek a trade while letting know his potential suitors that they expect a first-rounder in exchange.
Although the majority of other teams was deterred by the Dolphins’ asking price, Steelers obviously thought Fitzpatrick’ upside and versatility are well worth it.
Fitzpatrick, who was Miami’s 11th overall pick in 2018 NFL Draft, started 11 games in his rookie season and had 80 tackle and nine pass deflections to go with two interceptions and one touchdown. In two games this season, he recorded 12 tackles, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
