New York – Jets safety Minkah Fitzpatrick was back on the field Thursday, completing a full practice session after a groin injury forced him out of the team’s last two games. The 29‑year‑old, who was acquired from the Miami Dolphins in March, told reporters he expects to be active for Sunday’s matchup against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field.
Recovery and readiness
Fitzpatrick suffered the groin strain on the sixth snap of the Jets’ Week 1 opener against the Tennessee Titans. The injury sidelined him for the subsequent contests against the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions. “I tried my best to finish the game, but as a defensive back with a groin injury, it’s kind of tough,” Fitzpatrick said. “It was frustrating, but you still have to stay locked in. You can’t be mad in those circumstances. I was still trying to help the teammates in the best way we can.”
Impact on the Jets’ defense
The Jets have struggled to generate turnovers this season, extending a streak without an interception to an NFL‑record 20 games. Fitzpatrick’s return could help reverse that trend, as he brings a career total of 21 interceptions from his time with Miami and Pittsburgh, including a league‑best six picks for the Steelers in 2022.
Contract and expectations
When New York traded for Fitzpatrick, the team signed him to a three‑year, $40 million deal, signaling confidence that his play‑making ability would bolster a secondary that has been under pressure. Head coach insert coach name if known praised the safety’s work ethic during Thursday’s practice, noting that Fitzpatrick’s presence should give the secondary more confidence in coverage assignments.
Looking ahead to Chicago
The Bears enter the game with a solid rushing attack, and the Jets will rely on Fitzpatrick’s range and ball skills to disrupt Chicago’s passing game. If the safety can stay healthy and return to form, New York hopes to finally break the interception drought and give its offense better field position.
Team outlook
Beyond Fitzpatrick’s return, the Jets are still searching for consistency on both sides of the ball. Nevertheless, the safety’s full practice and optimistic outlook provide a bright spot for a franchise eager to improve its defensive reputation and compete for a playoff berth.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
