Steelers' Omar Khan Keeping Free Agent Pro Bowl Safety On His "Short List"

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a major trade on Monday morning when they sent Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Miami Dolphins. Pittsburgh received tight end Jonnu Smith and cornerback Jalen Ramsey in return. While Ramsey brings veteran experience to the secondary and Smith provides depth on offense, the move has left fans slightly concerned about the safety position, which now lacks clear star power heading into the season.

Fitzpatrick didn’t play up to his usual standards in 2024, but he was still one of the most respected players on the Steelers’ defense. A former All-Pro and consistent playmaker, Fitzpatrick’s presence in the secondary will be difficult to replace. His departure creates a major void in the middle of the field, and the pressure is now on the front office to find someone capable of stepping into that role.

That’s why Steelers insider Mark Kaboly believes General Manager Omar Khan already has his eyes on two possible replacements. One name that has started to gain traction is veteran safety Justin Simmons, who remains available in free agency. Adding a player of Simmons’ caliber could quickly calm concerns and bring proven leadership to a secondary that suddenly needs it.

"Sure, [Mike] Tomlin loves Juan Thornhill, but to think that Khan isn’t interested in adding to the safety position with a trade or in free agency (Justin Simmons or Jordan Whitehead), you are mistaken," Kaboly said. "Simmons is a former Pro Bowler, and considering he is still unemployed, he could be on Khan’s shortlist."

Kaboly notes that Head Coach Mike Tomlin has been pleased with what he’s seen from Juan Thornhill so far this offseason. Thornhill has impressed in practices and is expected to have a significant role in the defense. However, Kaboly still believes Khan is actively exploring the safety market, whether through free agency or a potential trade. 

Another name Kaboly mentioned is Jordan Whitehead, a seven-year NFL veteran and Super Bowl champion who could bring experience and toughness to the position.

It’s clear that Khan is looking to add depth to the safety room, even if the Steelers feel confident in their current options. Losing Fitzpatrick is a major blow, but the organization doesn’t seem to view it as a devastating one. That mindset suggests the Steelers believe they can replace Fitzpatrick’s impact through a combination of scheme, depth, and perhaps one more key addition before the season starts.

For the fan base, it’s a lot to process. Fitzpatrick was once considered arguably the best safety in football and played at an elite level during his first few years in Pittsburgh. However, over time, his role and production shifted, and it appears Tomlin and the front office came to the conclusion that the defense could function without him. That decision may not be popular with fans, but the Steelers seem confident in the path they’re taking. 

Another side of the fan base actually seems relieved to see Fitzpatrick go. The NFL moves quickly, and no matter how strong a player starts, it always comes down to what they’ve done lately. Unfortunately for Fitzpatrick, injuries derailed much of his 2023 season. When he returned, coaches spoke about him getting back to playing "Minkah Ball," but that level of dominance never truly resurfaced. If it had, the Steelers likely wouldn’t have felt comfortable moving on from him.

Steelers Willing To Make Bold Decisions

There’s also a financial aspect to consider. Fitzpatrick was still under contract, but a long-term commitment would have been looming in the near future. Given his recent dip in performance and availability, the Steelers may have decided that it made more sense to move on now, rather than risk tying up future cap space in a player they no longer saw as essential to their defensive identity.

This move signals that Pittsburgh is willing to make bold decisions in order to reshape its roster, even if it means parting with a former All-Pro. Whether fans agree or not, the organization clearly believes it can build a more balanced and sustainable defense without Fitzpatrick in the fold.

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