Minkah Fitzpatrick Dunks On Steelers Fans Talking Smack To Him Over Lack Of Big Plays

Pittsburgh Steelers fans have not all been appreciative of the greatness of Minkah Fitzpatrick as of late. The main critique of Fitzpatrick is that his last interception came on Jan. 1, 2023, during the 2022 season. Given his hefty salary, many fans expect splash plays from him every game, and when those plays don’t come, critique begins to build. While the lack of flashy moments has left some fans disappointed, it overlooks the more subtle, but still impactful, aspects of his game.

Despite the criticism, a closer look at Fitzpatrick’s role reveals why the big plays have been scarce. As a free safety, Fitzpatrick’s value often lies in his ability to prevent big gains and alter the course of a game in ways that aren’t always captured in the box score. He set the bar incredibly high early in his career, and now quarterbacks are far less likely to throw in his direction. This shift in how opposing offenses approach Fitzpatrick makes it much harder for him to make those game-changing plays that fans have come to expect.

Steelers insider Brian Batko recently sat down with Fitzpatrick to discuss the backlash surrounding his lack of splash plays. In the interview, Fitzpatrick explained that while the interceptions may not be coming as frequently, his impact remains undeniable. Fitzpatrick detailed that he can't force quarterbacks to throw his way.

"There’s not much I can really do," Fitzpatrick said. "I can’t tell quarterbacks to throw at me. I can’t abandon my zone to go make a play because of the position that I play. I keep a lid on it. I make sure nothing goes over the top, make sure nothing weasels its way out so a 10-yard play doesn’t go for 50. I think that allows us to still stay on the grass and play good football."

Opposing teams simply avoid throwing the football near Fitzpatrick because of the danger he poses. His ability to change games with splash plays has earned him that level of respect, but now, quarterbacks are reluctant to challenge him, limiting his opportunities. 

Fitzpatrick went on to explain his role further, emphasizing that his impact should not be questioned, even if the big plays aren’t as frequent.

"You’re the last man. When you mess up, it’s very obvious. It’s not like there’s a bunch of other people around you," Fitzpatrick said. "You miss an open-field tackle, it’s very obvious. You get dunked on by a post ball, it’s very obvious. You blow a coverage, it’s very obvious. It’s just a part of the gig. Everybody’s got a dirty part of their job."

Fitzpatrick's impact was on full display during the Week 10, 28-27 victory over the Washington Commanders, when he made a crucial game-winning tackle to prevent Zach Ertz from converting a key first down. While it's been difficult for Fitzpatrick to hear the criticism about his lack of splash plays, he remains confident in the value of his contributions.

Steelers' Minkah Fitzpatrick Has Been Great Despite Lack Of Splash Plays

Many analysts have broken down the film and highlighted that the Steelers' defense operates at such a high level because of Fitzpatrick's greatness. With one of the league's top defenses, the Steelers will need contributions from everyone, including Fitzpatrick. 

However, that doesn't diminish his importance—the defense wouldn't be what it is without Fitzpatrick patrolling as the last line of defense.

Steelers fans may continue to hope for more splash plays from Fitzpatrick, but it's crucial they recognize that his impact extends far beyond the stat sheet. His ability to control the game from the back end is what truly makes him a difference-maker.

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