Miami Dolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick made a game-saving interception on the Saints’ two-point conversion attempt, which he then returned the other way, giving Miami two crucial points.
Following the Dolphins’ win, Fitzpatrick spoke with his teammates and told them “he wouldn’t rather play with any other group of guys this season.” The three-time All-Pro is in his second tenure with the Dolphins after being traded from Pittsburgh in exchange for Jalen Ramsey this offseason.
Minkah Fitzpatrick’s Season
GettyMinkah Fitzpatrick
Prior to the Dolphins re-acquiring Minkah Fitzpatrick, the safety was seen as entering the latter stages of his career and declining, despite being only 28 years old when the season began. The Steelers preferred to use their resources on the older cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who had seen his Miami tenure end in ugly fashion.
Fitzpatrick had originally been drafted by the Dolphins in 2018. He then requested a trade after an 0-2 start in his sophomore season, and clashing with then-Miami head coach Brian Flores. The trade was granted, sending him to Pittsburgh, where he would make five Pro Bowl selections and be selected as an All-Pro on three occasions. Despite making back-to-back Pro Bowl appearances in his final two years as a Steeler, Fitzpatrick’s impact diminished. He totaled only one interception in two seasons, after a stellar 2022 where he finished with six.
The Dolphins safety has bounced back into form, totaling three takeaways plus his game-changing interception against the Saints. His interception return proved vital as the Saints would get the ball back after the onside kick, but could not take the lead with a field goal as the deficit had increased to four. Additionally, Fitzpatrick registered the first sack of his career.
Fitzpatrick has provided the Dolphins with much-needed veteran leadership. It showed on his interception, as Mike McDaniel wanted to call a timeout before the play, realizing there had been some miscommunication. Despite the miscommunication, Fitzpatrick made a game changing play and was then rewarded with the game ball.
Minkah Fitzpatrick’s Future in Miami
The Dolphins safety has had a strong second tenure in Miami, but that does not guarantee his long-term future with the team. In fact, reports surfaced that he was a trade candidate at the deadline, with the Dolphins being sellers. Based on his statements made after the game, it appears Fitzpatrick is happy with the Dolphins decision to keep him on their roster.
He still has one year left on his contract, but that doesn’t include any guaranteed money, making him a potential cut candidate. His level of play has all but guaranteed that he’ll have interest around the league if Miami were to cut him. With a new general manager set to take over in Miami this offseason, it would not be surprising if Minkah’s second Miami run lasts shorter than his first, even in spite of his high level of play.
With four games to go in the season, Fitzpatrick has been a staple of a Dolphins’ defense that has significantly improved throughout the season. They have now held their last three opponents to 17 points or fewer.
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