Former Alabama Superstar Minkah Fitzpatrick Named NFL's Top Safety

Saban would also highlight Fitzpatrick's versatility as a major piece for the Crimson Tide, "Minkah has a lot of versatility ... I think his diversity allows us a lot of different things that we can do." Fitzpatrick began his college career playing "money" (6th defensive back) and "star" (5th defensive back) before working his way up to starting corner his sophomore year. Following a season-ending injury that season to standout safety Eddie Jackson, Fitzpatrick made a near-seamless transition to the starting safety role for the Crimson Tide. 

Now, Fitzpatrick is getting his recognition in the NFL too. In a poll posted by Jeremy Fowler and ESPN, former Alabama standout DB Minkah Fitzpatrick was named the top Safety in the NFL by execs, coaches, and scouts across the league. In 5 seasons in the NFL, Fitzpatrick has already accumulated an impressive resume, being named First Team All-Pro 3 times in his career, with 4 pro bowl selections. 

In the 2023 season, Fitzpatrick notched a career-high 6 picks to pair with his 96 tackles and 11 passes defended (which also tied his career high). Fitzpatrick continues to use his versatility to his advantage in the NFL, "Best in the game, and it’s not close. You have to keep him moving because if he’s stationary, coordinators can plan for him, but every single play, there’s that feeling of, where is he going to be? Post, slot, nickel, box. He’s capable, willing, and able to handle all of that. He’s brilliant, works, studies, loves the game," an NFL personnel coordinator said to ESPN. 

When Fitzpatrick signed his contract extension last summer, he was the highest-paid safety in the league, making $18.2 million per year with $36 million fully guaranteed. Just a few months later, Derwin James swooped in and stole the title. With Fitzpatrick firmly atop the NFL as the best safety in the league, he should have no trouble reclaiming the title of highest-paid when it's time for his contract negotiations again. 

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