3 reasons Minkah Fitzpatrick deserved a record-setting contract

Minkah Fitzpatrick has shown durability and versatility

While playing at Alabama, Fitzpatrick, out of necessity, ended up seeing time at both corner and safety.  This versatility followed him to the NFL. His ability to play both positions is an asset.

In modern defensive football, having the flexibility to put players in favorable matchups is key to success. It allows the defense to disguise and adjust without tipping the hat to the offense by substituting key personnel packages.

The recent trend at safety is to move away from the big bruiser types, for a more hybrid player who can line up and cover an extra wide receiver, play in an overhang position with run fit responsibility, as well as play deep coverage.

The Steelers have exactly that player here. With his size-speed combination, Minkah Fitzpatrick is the embodiment of what the safety position is transitioning into.

Add to that the fact that in 4 years he has only missed one game, and you’ve got a dude you can depend on to get the job done week in and week out.

In a division with two high-powered offenses and the Browns, you need that guy on the back end of your D.