Steelers HC Mike Tomlin on Minkah Fitzpatrick: 'Everybody respects that dude'

Fitzpatrick's Week 1 performance against the Bengals included 14 tackles, a 31-yard interception for a touchdown, a blocked extra point. Pro Football Focus gave him a 90.6 grade, the highest grade for any of the Steelers defenders.

It is the first time Fitzpatrick has won player of the week. He may need to have a similar impact with linebacker T.J. Watt out for perhaps six weeks rehabbing a torn pec muscle, as reported by NFL Network's Ian Rapoprt.

In Week 2 in their home opener, the Steelers host the Patriots. New England is dealing with injuries of its own following Week 1, highlighted by QB Mac Jones, who has back spasms but expects to play. If Jones can't go Sunday, journeyman Brian Hoyer will replace him.

No matter whom they line up against, the Steelers defense, led by Fitzpatrick, must control the game. Pittsburgh's offense finished with only 267 yards against Cincinnati.