Fitzpatrick’s return to form anchors a defense that emphasizes turnovers and run prevention. His presence elevates IDP value and benefits the D-line and secondary, translating to more scoring chances for the entire unit.

Fitzpatrick replaces Ramsey/Holland-era dynamics with Pro Bowl leadership, bringing playmaking and stability to the back end.

Fitzpatrick’s prior trade history anchors the safety narrative; his All-Pro pedigree shapes expectations for a reshaped back end now anchored by Clark and Thornhill with Elliott providing depth.

Fitzpatrick’s return to the Steelers in the Ramsey swap adds veteran leadership to a defense poised to contest for AFC dominance. His presence buffers the loss of Ramsey and anchors secondary communication, enhancing the unit’s ceiling in turnover-heavy fantasy scoring formats.

Fitzpatrick’s potential return discussion anchors the defensive leadership theme, with his presence shaping the secondary’s ceiling and a broader culture of accountability and cohesion that fantasy managers will watch for shifts in takeaways, passes defended, and overall defensive efficiency.