‘It’s Unfortunate’: Minkah Fitzpatrick Makes First Comments After Steelers Exit

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jul 28, 2025 12:36 PM ET

Minkah Fitzpatrick is back in Miami, and while he’s keeping a low profile on social media, the All-Pro safety is now speaking publicly for the first time since his trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers to the Dolphins.

On June 30, Fitzpatrick was dealt to Miami in a move that sent Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith, and a 2027 seventh-round pick to Pittsburgh. The Dolphins also received a 2027 fifth-rounder as part of the deal.

The transaction marked a return to where it all began — the Dolphins originally selected Fitzpatrick with the No. 11 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.

“It’s unfortunate,” Fitzpatrick said when asked about his exit from Pittsburgh. “But it’s business.”

Minkah Fitzpatrick: I am not a big social media guy. I’m not frustrated to be here. I appreciated my time in Pittsburgh. It’s unfortunate. But it’s business. My silence was not a reflection of my excitement to be here. I’m proud to be here. pic.twitter.com/tTnP3JhxyP
— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) July 28, 2025

Fitzpatrick emphasized that his silence in the weeks following the trade had nothing to do with bitterness or frustration toward the Steelers. “I’m not a big social media guy,” he added. “My silence was not a reflection of my excitement to be here. I’m proud to be here.”

He made it clear that his lack of public comment wasn’t related to the Dolphins or any lingering emotions from his first stint in Miami. In fact, Fitzpatrick said he’s excited to be back and would like to remain in Miami long-term. His return comes as the Dolphins revamp their defense under new leadership, signaling a shift back toward a playmaking, high-pressure identity.

Fitzpatrick was traded to Pittsburgh early in the 2019 season after voicing frustrations about his role in Miami’s scheme. In Pittsburgh, he became a foundational piece for the Steelers’ secondary, earning multiple All-Pro selections and becoming one of the most respected safeties in the league.

Now, the 28-year-old returns to Miami not as a young prospect, but as a veteran leader with unfinished business.

Fitzpatrick said of his return to Miami, “I appreciated my time in Pittsburgh. I’m proud to be here,” and that he is excited to be a Dolphin again.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: