The Aftermath of the Minkah Fitzpatrick Trade for Miami

One of the most significant trades of the offseason unfolded this past week, with the Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Steelers completing a major player exchange involving Jonnu Smith, Jalen Ramsey, and Minkah Fitzpatrick. The trade sent shockwaves throughout the league, with many questioning the reasoning behind the deal for both parties involved.

Minkah Fitzpatrick brings a wealth of experience and proven talent to the Dolphins’ secondary. An eight-year NFL veteran and a three-time first-team All-Pro, Fitzpatrick has played in 106 career games, starting 101 of them during his seven seasons split between Miami (2018–19) and Pittsburgh (2019–24). Over the course of his career, he has compiled impressive statistics, including 606 tackles—of which 398 were solo stops—20 interceptions with four returned for touchdowns, 54 passes defensed, and five forced fumbles along with five fumble recoveries. Beyond the regular season, Fitzpatrick has also made an impact in the playoffs, starting in four postseason contests, and has been honored with five Pro Bowl selections. Drafted 11th overall in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft by Miami, Fitzpatrick’s collegiate pedigree includes playing for Alabama, where he was a key contributor to two National Championship teams in 2015 and 2017.

This blockbuster trade reshapes both Miami’s and Pittsburgh’s rosters significantly. The Dolphins add a versatile, ball-hawking safety in Fitzpatrick, who will bolster their defensive backfield with leadership and playmaking ability. Meanwhile, the Steelers acquire two dynamic offensive weapons in Ramsey and Smith, who each bring a blend of experience, skill, and proven production that could elevate their unit moving forward. As both teams prepare for the upcoming season, this trade promises to have ripple effects on their futures, as each franchise has clearly chosen the direction it wishes to pursue.