The Pittsburgh Steelers shook the NFL with a blockbuster trade on Monday. The franchise is making moves to bring reinforcements for the legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers, whom they signed earlier this month.
Pittsburgh’s defensive back DeShon Elliott shared his bittersweet reaction to the franchise’s decision to part ways with its safety.
DeShon Elliott Opens Up About Minkah Fitzpatrick-Jalen Ramsey Trade
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, as well as NFL Network‘s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, were the first to announce the trade deal between the Miami Dolphins and the Steelers.
The complete trade package includes the Steelers receiving three-time All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey, Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith, and a 2027 seventh-round pick. On the other side, the Dolphins are getting All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round selection.
Pittsburgh is reportedly giving Ramsey a $1.5 million raise, bringing his salary up to $26.6 million for the year. This star-for-star (and then some) swap is notable not only for the caliber of players involved but also for the strategic implications it carries for both franchises.
DB Elliott made his feelings about the trade known via his X handle.
“Happy 5 is a Steeler! But boy imma miss my partner in crime. Both Potential Gold Jackets, respect the game! This shxt a business at the end of the day,” he wrote.
Happy 5 is a Steeler! But boy imma miss my partner in crime . Both Potential Gold Jackets , respect the game ! This shxt a business at the end of the day.
— DeShon Elliott (@ElliottDeshon) June 30, 2025
While Eliott is glad to have Ramsey in Pittsburgh, Fitzpatrick’s departure breaks his heart. Elliott and Fitzpatrick played together for only one season. The Steelers DB moved from Miami to Pittsburgh last year, just to see the All-Pro safety join the Dolphins the following year.
Fitzpatrick returns to the franchise that drafted him as the 11th overall in the 2018 NFL Draft. His first stint with the Dolphins lasted only 18 games before he joined the Steelers in 2019.
By reuniting with Fitzpatrick, the Dolphins upgrade a safety group that was set to rely on late-round picks and journeymen. Miami moved on from Jevon Holland this offseason, and Fitzpatrick is a proven veteran who can operate alongside Ifeatu Melifonwu.
Fitzpatrick, who made three All-Pro teams and five Pro Bowls during his time in Pittsburgh, brings elite ball skills and versatility. Over his seven NFL seasons, he’s recorded 20 interceptions and 54 pass breakups, per Pro Football Reference, ranking among the league’s top safeties in both categories.
Fitzpatrick also boasts a proven track record as a tackler and playmaker, recording 96 tackles last season. His career 8.7% forced incompletion rate is among the best at his position.
The Steelers are doubling down on their cornerback room, as Ramsey now joins Darius Slay and Joey Porter Jr., forming a dynamic group on the back end. Even though Ramsey will turn 31 during the upcoming season and seemed to regress a bit last season, the seven-time Pro Bowler remains one of the NFL’s premier corners.
Ramsey’s leadership and championship pedigree also bring intangible value to a defense that already features other proven stars like T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward. Though Ramsey’s arrival draws excitement, Pittsburgh must replace Fitzpatrick, who’s been a staple on the back end. Perhaps, they see Elliott and Juan Thornhill as the starting safety duo.