Steelers FS Minkah Fitzpatrick Named AP First-Team All-Pro

Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick has earned first-team All-Pro honors for the second consecutive season.

Fitzpatrick has been a game-changer for the Steelers defense since arriving from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for a first-round pick last season, forcing 14 takeaways over the last two seasons.

In 2020, Fitzpatrick had 79 total tackles, eleven passes defended and a team-high four interceptions, one of which he returned for a 37-yard touchdown.

His accomplishment also entrenches him in a long list of elite Steelers secondary defenders, joining Rod Woodson, Troy Polamalu, Donnie Shell, Jack Butler and Mel Blount as the only Pittsburgh defensive backs with multiple first-team All-Pro selections.

Fitzpatrick’s selection was split with Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker, who had a tremendous season in his own right. They tied with 18 votes. The Kansas City Chiefs’ Tyrann Mathieu took the other safety slot with 19.

Fitzpatrick was also named to his second consecutive Pro Bowl for his performance in 2020.

Fitzpatrick was not the only Pittsburgh defender honored Friday, as outside linebacker T.J. Watt was also named first-team All-Pro. Defensive lineman Cam Heyward earned second-team All-Pro honors.