Mike Tomlin Likens Steelers’ New DB to Minkah Fitzpatrick
Following a strong Week 9 performance, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin praised new safety Kyle Dugger, drawing comparisons to the team’s earlier star, Minkah Fitzpatrick. Dugger played a crucial role in the Steelers’ recent victory over the Indianapolis Colts, a team known for its high-scoring offense.
Kyle Dugger’s Impressive Steelers Debut
Dugger, who recently joined the Steelers via trade from the New England Patriots, was thrust into action due to injuries within the team’s defensive lineup. With DeShon Elliott placed on the reserve/injured list and both Chuck Clark and Jabrill Peppers sidelined, Dugger’s contributions became essential.
In his debut, Dugger logged an impressive four tackles while participating in 77 defensive snaps, 53 of which were played at free safety, according to Pro Football Focus. This performance was critical in helping the Steelers limit the Colts to just 20 points, despite the opposition’s strong offensive averages of 33.8 points and 385.3 yards per game prior to the matchup.
Coach Tomlin’s Praise
Coach Tomlin highlighted the immediate impact Dugger made, comparing him to Fitzpatrick, who had a significant influence since being traded from the Miami Dolphins in 2019. Tomlin stated, “It’s reminiscent of when we acquired Minkah Fitzpatrick… he fit right in instantly.”
Moreover, Tomlin awarded Dugger a game ball in recognition of his effort in a challenging situation. He remarked, “This guy got on the moving train and played a lot of defense for us today, and we needed it.”
What This Means for the Steelers Moving Forward
The Steelers are keen to build on this defensive momentum. Dugger’s ability to adapt quickly and perform under pressure sets a promising precedent. While it is unlikely he will maintain such a high snap count, his initial performance suggests he can effectively support the defense, especially in challenging circumstances.
The Steelers are still searching for a solid long-term replacement for Fitzpatrick, who was traded back to the Dolphins in the offseason. With Dugger’s emergence, the Steelers may have found a valuable asset within their defensive ranks.
- Dugger’s Stats: 4 tackles, 77 defensive snaps
- Injuries Impacting Safety Position:
- DeShon Elliott (knee) on reserve/injured list
- Chuck Clark (illness) out
- Jabrill Peppers (quadriceps) absent
- Next Steps: Focus on maintaining strong defensive performances
As the Steelers progress through the season, Dugger’s role will be closely monitored. With potential for growth and development, fans are eager to see what he brings to the table in the coming games.
