The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered the early loss of a crucial player during their game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday.
Minkah Fitzpatrick, a standout safety who had been selected to the All-Pro team, fell to the ground with a non-contact hamstring injury. Shortly after the incident, he was ruled out for the remainder of the game. During coverage, Fitzpatrick clutched his right leg and collapsed to the ground in the first quarter.
Immediately taken to the sideline medical tent for evaluation, Fitzpatrick was then escorted directly to the locker room. Initially, he was listed as doubtful for a possible return. However, moments later, the Steelers announced that he would not return to the game.
This loss is a significant setback for the 4-2 Pittsburgh Steelers, who were facing off against the 5-2 Jacksonville Jaguars in a crucial AFC matchup. Fitzpatrick, a three-time All-Pro, led the NFL in interceptions last season with six. He is considered the top playmaker and defender in the Steelers’ secondary.
The timeline for Fitzpatrick’s return remains uncertain. Following games against the Tennessee Titans and Green Bay Packers in the coming weeks, the Steelers will face AFC North rivals, the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals.
Before Sunday’s game, the Steelers had won four out of their last five games since their Week 1 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Their defense has been instrumental in their strong start, holding opponents to 18 points or less in each of the past four weeks.
