Cardinals Legend Larry Fitzgerald Will Never Retire
Legendary wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, who will be enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame this Saturday, explains why he will never officially retire from football. As someone who has been around the sport his entire life, Fitzgerald reveals how he dislikes the very concept of 'retirement,' instead favoring a transition through different phases.
According to reporting by CBS Sports - NFL, 'I have not committed to retirement,' Fitzgerald said recently. But he adds that 'I don't know if it would've meant the same for me if I went to somewhere where it was already some super team.' The 42-year-old has spent his entire career with the Arizona Cardinals and firmly believes in staying active in football.
Fitzgerald, a lifelong athlete, started as a ball boy for the Minnesota Vikings and later played a crucial role for the Cardinals. He was drafted third overall by the Cardinals in 2004, setting records and earning accolades throughout his career with the team.
Why Fitzgerald Hates Retirement
In his youth, Fitzgerald's grandfather would warn him that retirement could be harmful. 'They'd talk about retirement killing more people in our country than anything,' said Fitzgerald. This stuck with him deeply and solidified his stance against ever considering the word.
A Lifelong Career Spanning Two Teams
Fitzgerald spent 17 years with the Cardinals, amassing an astounding 17,492 receiving yards and 1,432 receptions. He was part of one Super Bowl victory in 2009 during his iconic run to Super Bowl XLIII. He also holds the record for most playoff touchdowns caught (7) over a 4-game span with Pittsburgh.
Legacy in the League
Among Fitzgerald's numerous accomplishments is winning the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award and making 11 Pro Bowls. His career statistics speak volumes, as do his contributions to both on-field success and off-field positivity within the sport.