The Pittsburgh Steelers may be without quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (elbow) on Sunday and for the remainder of the season, but the team did upgrade its defense by adding defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick via a trade on Monday night.
There was some question whether or not Fitzpatrick would be ready to play on Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said on Tuesday that the defensive back has landed in the area and is expected to play during the Week 3 matchup. Although, Fitzpatrick's role may be limited until he becomes comfortable with his new team.
"He's on the ground now as we speak, so we have almost a full week to prepare him to play," Tomlin said via Mike Garafolo of NFL Network.
Mike Tomlin says Minkah Fitzpatrick will play Sunday for the #Steelers vs the #49ers, though they'll keep his role somewhat limited to have him get comfortable. "He's on the ground now as we speak so we have almost a full week to prepare him to play."
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) September 17, 2019
The Steelers sent a 2020 first-round draft pick to the Miami Dolphins, who now own three first-round selections next year, in exchange for Fitzpatrick.
There was some question whether or not Steelers running back James Conner (knee) would be available against the 49ers. Conner has since said he is "pretty confident" he will play.
Kickoff between the 49ers (2-0) and Steelers (0-2) from Levi's Stadium is set for Sunday at 1:25 p.m. PT.