Dez Fitzpatrick Bio
Desmond Emil “Dez” Fitzpatrick is an American professional football wide receiver who has played for multiple NFL teams since entering the league in 2021. Born on December 17, 1997, in Pontiac, Michigan, Fitzpatrick has built a reputation as a determined athlete who continues to pursue opportunities at the professional level. He played college football for the Louisville Cardinals before being selected by the Tennessee Titans in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Throughout his professional journey, Fitzpatrick has demonstrated resilience, moving between teams and earning his place on active rosters through consistent performance.
Early Life and Background
Fitzpatrick was born in Pontiac, Michigan, where he attended Mott High School in Waterford, Michigan. During his high school years, he developed his skills as a wide receiver, establishing himself as a promising college prospect. His athletic abilities and dedication to the sport set the foundation for his future football career at the collegiate level.
After graduating from Mott High School, Fitzpatrick pursued higher education and football at the University of Louisville. He played for the Louisville Cardinals from 2016 through 2020, honing his craft against college-level competition and preparing himself for the professional ranks.
Path to the NFL
Fitzpatrick’s journey to the NFL was marked by steady development during his five seasons at Louisville. As a member of the Cardinals, he refined his receiving skills, built chemistry with quarterbacks, and gained valuable experience in major college football competitions. His progression through the collegiate program prepared him for the challenges of professional football.
His strong college performance caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the 2021 NFL Draft. Fitzpatrick was chosen by the Tennessee Titans in the fourth round with the 109th overall pick, fulfilling his dream of becoming a professional football player.
Dez Fitzpatrick Career
Tennessee Titans (2021–2022)
Fitzpatrick began his professional career with the Tennessee Titans after being drafted in 2021. He signed his four-year rookie contract with the team on May 17, 2021. However, his rookie season got off to a challenging start when he was waived by the Titans on August 31 as part of final roster cuts. Fitzpatrick was quickly re-signed to the practice squad the following day, maintaining his connection with the organization.
His persistence paid off when he was signed to the active roster on November 13, 2021, following Julio Jones being placed on injured reserve. Fitzpatrick made the most of his opportunity, scoring his first career touchdown on November 23 against the Houston Texans on an 18-yard reception from quarterback Ryan Tannehill. This moment marked his breakthrough in the NFL and validated his selection in the draft.
During the 2022 season, Fitzpatrick faced similar roster challenges. He was waived again on August 30 as part of final roster cuts and re-signed to the practice squad the following day. His practice squad contract expired after the season concluded on January 7, 2023, leading him to seek new opportunities.
Pittsburgh Steelers (2023–2024)
On January 11, 2023, Fitzpatrick signed a reserve/future contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, joining another organization in search of a more permanent role. His tenure with the Steelers was characterized by movement between the active roster and practice squad. He was released on August 29 and re-signed to the practice squad the following day. Fitzpatrick was promoted to the active roster on September 14, only to be released on October 2 and re-signed to the practice squad two days later.
Despite the roster fluctuations, Fitzpatrick demonstrated his commitment by signing a reserve/futures contract on January 17, 2024, indicating the Steelers’ continued interest in his potential. However, his time in Pittsburgh ended on August 27, 2024, when he was waived by the Steelers as part of final roster cuts.
Los Angeles Chargers (2024–Present)
Fitzpatrick continued his professional journey by joining the Los Angeles Chargers. He was signed to the Chargers’ practice squad on September 2, 2024. His stint with the team saw some roster movement, as he was released on December 5 before being re-signed to the practice squad on December 10, demonstrating the competitive nature of maintaining an NFL roster spot.
Fitzpatrick’s perseverance earned him a reserve-future contract on January 13, 2025, signaling the Chargers’ interest in his development for the 2025 season. This contract provided him an opportunity to compete for a more permanent role during training camp and the upcoming season.
Playing Style and Strengths
Fitzpatrick stands at 6 feet 2 inches and weighs 208 pounds, giving him the size advantageous for contested catches and red-zone situations. His background at Louisville under college-level competition prepared him with route-running fundamentals and an understanding of professional offensive schemes. His first career touchdown—an 18-yard reception against the Texans—demonstrated his ability to make plays when given the opportunity.
Notable Events and Milestones
The most significant milestone in Fitzpatrick’s early career remains his first NFL touchdown against the Houston Texans in November 2021. This moment validated his transition from college to professional football and provided confidence as he continued his career journey through multiple organizations.
Dez Fitzpatrick Career Statistics
Throughout his NFL career spanning from 2021 to 2025, Fitzpatrick has appeared in games with the Tennessee Titans, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Los Angeles Chargers. His offensive contributions have been limited but meaningful, reflecting his role as a depth player at the wide receiver position.
NFL Statistics Highlights
In his professional career, Fitzpatrick has recorded 5 receptions for 49 receiving yards and 1 receiving touchdown. His single touchdown came during his rookie season with the Titans on an 18-yard reception. These statistics reflect his primarily special teams and backup role throughout his career, while demonstrating his capability to contribute when opportunities arise.
Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Public records do not provide detailed information about Fitzpatrick’s family background, parents, or any racing lineage. Specific details regarding his family members, including their names or occupations, are not currently available in verified sources.
Personal Life
Fitzpatrick was born on December 17, 1997, making him 27 years old as of 2024. He maintains a presence on social media but keeps his personal life private. There is no public information available regarding a spouse or children. He continues to focus on his football career while pursuing opportunities at the professional level.
2025 Season Performance
Entering the 2025 season, Fitzpatrick signed a reserve-future contract with the Los Angeles Chargers in January, giving him an opportunity to compete for a roster spot during the offseason program and training camp. However, his pursuit of a permanent roster spot encountered a setback when he was waived by the Chargers with an injury designation on August 14, 2025. This development marked another chapter in his journey through the NFL, reflecting the competitive challenges faced by players at the professional level. Fitzpatrick’s career trajectory demonstrates the perseverance required to maintain an NFL career, and his journey continues as he works toward securing another opportunity in professional football.