Potential replacements for Minkah Fitzpatrick
By: Jake Rajala
The Pittsburgh Steelers bravely shipped away Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick for fellow Pro Bowl cornerback Jalen Ramsey. This leaves a hole at the Steelers safety position. With that said, I’m going to list potential replacements for Minkah.
Marcus Williams
Marcus Williams is a free agent, which means the Steelers don’t have to trade for him. Plus, he’s 28 years old, so he should have a few modest seasons left in him. He covers more ground than most safeties. His issue is staying healthy. He has missed 19 games over the past few seasons combined. He shines more as a deep safety than in the box safety.
Tyrann Mathieu
It felt like yesterday that the honey badger was one of the best all-around CFB players for LSU. He’s had a fantastic pro career, as well. However, he may be looking to go out with a bang, also known as a Lombardi trophy. It won’t be easy for a Saints rookie in Tyler Shough or second year QB Spencer Rattler (0-9 last season) to lead the Saints to the promised land. Hence, he may be looking to join a Steelers squad that has Aaron Rodgers and T.J. Watt.
Kevin Byard
Kevin Byard has been named first-team All-Pro twice. He had a career high 130 combined tackles last season! He also had seven pass deflections and five tackles for loss! He had a PFF grade of 72.8 last season, which is admirable for his switch to a new role, which used him more in the box.
Malik Hooker
Malik Hooker plays in one of the most talented secondaries in the league. Trevon Diggs and Daron Bland are a superb CB duo. Malik Hooker is also coming off a poor season. This combination could make him somewhat expendable. I believe that Hooker can shine again with a change of scenery.
The Steelers have an elite CB to join Joey Porter Jr, but they lack talent at the safety spot, which should make Troy Polamalu lose sleep at night. Before the off-season eclipses, I’d love to see a veteran safety join their ranks.
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