March 15, 2026, 11:15 a.m. ET
The New York Jets got in the trade market during the start of the 2026 NFL free agency period by landing safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Fitzpatrick, 29, is a familiar player in New York. He comes to the Jets via trade with their division-rival, the Miami Dolphins… and Fitzpatrick has had two stints there.
Factoring his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Fitzpatrick has played in 120 career games and has recorded 21 interceptions and 60 pass breakups.
As one of the newest Jets, you’ll want to get to know him now.
Here are six things to know about Fitzpatrick:
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.First rounder
Even before playing in the AFC East in Miami, Fitzpatrick was a known commodity as a first-round pick. In 2018, the Dolphins selected him 11th overall out of Alabama.
Accolades
Pro Bowls help your name, too. Fitzpatrick is a five-time Pro Bowler and even a three-time, first-team All-Pro player. Among those years, Fitzpatrick co-led the NFL with six interceptions.
Local connection
As a New Jersey native, Fitzpatrick is somewhat coming home. From Old Bridge, N.J., he once played a state title game at MetLife Stadium back in the day.
Hurricane Sandy
Fitzpatrick’s family lost their home in Hurricane Sandy in 2012.
“Definitely made me grow up quick, for sure,” Fitzpatrick told Bleacher Report. “You never really think, like, you’re gonna lose everything, you know what I’m saying? You might lose a person in your life. You might lose certain things. But what about when you lose everything, every aspect—your house, your car, your clothes.”
Used to trades
Not only does Fitzpatrick know trades well, this is the third time he has been traded. In 2019, he went from the Dolphins to the Steelers… then from Pittsburgh back to Miami before last season.
Has lost to the Jets
While yes, the Jets have struggled in recent years, Fitzpatrick has lost against Gang Green in the past. He has a 4-2 career record versus the Jets.