Steelers' Fitzpatrick aims to get back to playing 'Minkah ball'

Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is coming off his least productive season, generating goose eggs in most stat columns.

The 27-year-old did not record any interceptions, forced fumbles, or fumble recoveries in 10 games. For the first time in his six-year NFL career, he failed to force a minimum of two turnovers.

As we move into 2024, Fitzpatrick is keen to return to his style of play, known as “Minkah ball.”

“Just let me play ball,” Fitzpatrick said Wednesday, via the team’s official website. “That’s it. Minkah ball.”

Fitzpatrick’s season was cut short due to injuries, causing him to miss seven games and play through minor injuries in several more. The lack of stability in the Steelers’ defensive rear also hindered the safety from showcasing his proven ability to be a versatile threat as he has been in the past.

Fitzpatrick believes the offseason additions of DeShon Elliott, Donte Jackson, Patrick Queen, Dean Lowry and others will allow him to return to playing Minkah ball.

Fitzpatrick said, “The more great players we have on the field, the better it is for Minkah to play his game.”

The Steelers defense appears to have made improvements since last year, according to paper records. The crucial factor, however, will be their ability to maintain health, especially after the injury onslaught they experienced in 2023.