CBS Sports names Steeler one of NFL's 'most underappreciated players'

The Steelers have quietly constructed a very talented roster, and although we will have to see how they perform this season, CBS Sports believes one of Pittsburgh's top players is constantly overlooked.

CBS Sports named safety Minkah Fitzpatrick as "one of the most underappreciated players" in the NFL.

"We rave about Derwin James and Justin Simmons and Jessie Bates, but this guy should probably lead every conversation about top safeties," CBS Sports' Cody Benjamin writes. "While Pat Freiermuth and Cameron Heyward are also worthy candidates here, Fitzpatrick has been an absolute ball-hawking machine since arriving in Pittsburgh."

James, Simmons and Bates have been impressive throughout their careers as well, but Fitzpatrick is still only 26 and has established himself as the best all-around safety in the NFL.

The Steelers traded the Dolphins for Fitzpatrick in 2019 and the rest is history. He has 17 picks and 38 pass breakups in just under four full seasons. The three-time Pro Bowler also led the league in interceptions (six) in 2022.

On Wednesday, he finally received the recognition he deserves when league executives, coaches and scouts ranked him as the best safety in the NFL.

Fitzpatrick could help Pittsburgh's defense be a top-five unit in 2023 paired with a healthy T.J. Watt, Cameron Heyward, Alex Highsmith and Patrick Peterson.