Grading The Trade: Steelers take a swing that will result in a homerun or a strikeout after moving off Minkah Fitzpatrick

But all you have to do is analyze Minkah's play when he first joined the Steelers, compared to his last two years. 12 interceptions over his first three seasons in Pittsburgh compared to just one over the last two seasons. 

Add on the fact he was making top-of-the-market money, the team just extended DeShon Elliott, T.J. Watt needs a new deal, and Minkah would be up for his own contract soon, and it was a win-win for the Steelers. 

That doesn't mean the move doesn't incur risk, however. You can't make all the moves the Steelers did this offseason: DK Metcalf trade , Aaron Rodgers signing, Darius Slay signing, and now trade for two Pro Bowlers to miss the playoffs or get bounced in the first round. 

So on paper, the trade is an A- for the Steelers. They netted two players who will be instant contributors, at two positions of need given their versatility. But letting go of a franchise cornerstone and failing to make significant noise in the postseason will result in a hot kitchen. 

This is now Super Bowl or bust for the Steelers. Sure, you would like another playmaker at the WR position, and now you need a free safety. But Jonnu Smith is a supercharged WR who just so happens to play TE. Jalen Ramsey can play any position in the secondary. The holes on the roster are few and far between. 

Meaning, all or nothing in 2025.