Bengals Considering Trade for Dolphins Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick

Cincinnati looking to upgrade secondary with All-Pro defensive back

Feb. 26, 2026 at 11:55am

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The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly exploring a potential trade for Miami Dolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick, a former first-round pick, has emerged as one of the top safeties in the NFL and could provide a significant upgrade to the Bengals' secondary, which was among the league's worst last season.

Why it matters

The Bengals are coming off a disappointing season and are looking to make major improvements to their roster this offseason. Acquiring a player of Fitzpatrick's caliber could be a game-changer for the team as they aim to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2015.

The details

According to reports, the Dolphins have had trade discussions involving Fitzpatrick, who is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract. The Bengals, who have a need at safety, are said to be one of the teams interested in acquiring the 25-year-old defensive back. Fitzpatrick was ranked as the seventh-best safety in the NFL by Pro Football Focus last season and would provide an immediate boost to the Bengals' secondary.

  • Fitzpatrick is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract with the Dolphins.

The players

Minkah Fitzpatrick

A 25-year-old safety for the Miami Dolphins who has emerged as one of the top players at his position in the NFL.

Cincinnati Bengals

An NFL team that is looking to upgrade its secondary this offseason and has reportedly expressed interest in trading for Minkah Fitzpatrick.

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What’s next

The Bengals will need to determine if they have the necessary assets to acquire Fitzpatrick from the Dolphins, and whether the trade would be worth the investment given their other roster needs this offseason.

The takeaway

The potential trade for Minkah Fitzpatrick represents an opportunity for the Bengals to significantly improve their secondary and take a step towards contending in the AFC North. However, the team will need to carefully weigh the cost of the trade against their other offseason priorities.