Mike Tomlin ‘Optimistic’ Minkah Fitzpatrick Could Play vs. Bengals

PITTSBURGH — Mike Tomlin and the Steelers are optimistic that star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick could play against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Fitzpatrick reportedly had an appendectomy on Saturday, but the All-Pro is pushing to potentially play just over a week after the surgery.

Tomlin noted that Fitzpatrick pushed to play on Sunday, but that was not the wise decision to make. However, on Tuesday already, Fitzpatrick was running at the team’s facility. That is a good sign and something that makes Tomlin extremely positive about his potential inclusion in the game.

“Reports regarding Minkah and his inclusion this week are really positive,” Tomlin said. “I know that he’s already been here and run today. I saw him Sunday at the stadium. Minkah wanted to play on Sunday, but obviously, that’s not the appropriate thing to do.”

This would be a sharp turnaround for Fitzpatrick to play only a week after surgery. Joe Burrow, who missed three weeks in the offseason after his appendectomy, had a lengthened return process. Tomlin refused to speculate on his time frame, but that Fitzpatrick is working hard to get back onto the field.

“I have no idea, to be honest with you,” Tomlin said on Fitzpatrick’s recovery. “Listen, I would just be speculating. I’ll listen and let the participation be our guide.”

Minkah Fitzpatrick seems to be on track to potentially play. It is no slam dunk that he will play, but the light is out for the Steelers to get Fitzpatrick back onto the field.