Larry Fitzgerald’s remarkable journey in football has captivated fans for years, leading to his induction into both the College Football Hall of Fame and his eligibility for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026.
He finished his career with 1,432 receptions and 17,492 yards, ranking second in NFL history. This enduring legacy has not only solidified his place in football history but also made him a significant figure among sports enthusiasts.
Fitzgerald’s college years at the University of Pittsburgh were nothing short of spectacular. As a sophomore in 2003, he received unanimous First Team All-American honors and was a Heisman Trophy runner-up.
His impressive statistics—92 catches for 1,672 yards and 22 touchdowns—showcase his dominance on the field. This early career success set the stage for his Hall of Fame legacy and eventual NFL stardom.
Fans admire Fitzgerald not just for his on-field success but also for his sportsmanship and community contributions. His impressive career statistics and role as a key player for the Arizona Cardinals make his likely induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026 a highly anticipated event.
His journey offers valuable insights into what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of football.
Who Is Larry Fitzgerald?
Larry Fitzgerald is a renowned former NFL wide receiver known for his impressive career with the Arizona Cardinals. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame for his achievements in college football at the University of Pittsburgh.
Where Did Larry Fitzgerald Grow Up?
Larry Fitzgerald grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He attended the Academy of Holy Angels, where he excelled in football.
His talent on the field was evident early on, making him a standout player in high school. His father, Larry Fitzgerald Sr., is a sportswriter, which gave young Larry unique insights into professional sports.
This environment fostered his passion for football and played a significant role in his development as an athlete.
Where Does Larry Fitzgerald Live?
Larry Fitzgerald resides in Paradise Valley, Arizona. After spending his entire NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals, he chose to stay in the state.
Paradise Valley is known for its luxury homes and scenic views, making it a fitting place for a sports legend. His home reflects his successful career and dedication to the sport, providing a serene environment where he can enjoy his post-retirement life.
Who Is Larry Fitzgerald Married To?
Larry Fitzgerald keeps his personal life relatively private. He was in a relationship with Melissa Blakesley, with whom he has one child.
While there are no confirmed reports that he is currently married, his relationship with Blakesley was well-documented during his playing days. Fitzgerald’s focus often remains on his philanthropic efforts and community work rather than his personal relationships.
Does Larry Fitzgerald Have Children?
Larry Fitzgerald has two sons: Devin Fitzgerald and Apollo Fitzgerald. Devin, his older son, was from a previous relationship before he met Melissa Blakesley. Apollo was born during his relationship with Melissa Blakesley.
Fitzgerald is known for being a dedicated father, often sharing moments of his life with his children on social media. His commitment to his family is evident and complements his professional achievements.
Larry Fitzgerald College Football Career
Larry Fitzgerald had an outstanding college football career with the Pittsburgh Panthers. His performances on the field earned him significant awards and recognition.
Where Did Larry Fitzgerald Play College Football?
Larry Fitzgerald played college football for the Pittsburgh Panthers. During his time at Pitt, he quickly became a standout player.
He played for the team from 2002 to 2003. Despite playing only two seasons, his impact was immense. Fitzgerald was known for his remarkable catching ability and agility. He often left both defenders and fans in awe.
At Pitt, Fitzgerald’s performances were crucial in several key games. His time at college set the stage for his later success in the NFL.
Did Larry Fitzgerald Coach College Football?
Larry Fitzgerald did not coach college football. After his college career, he quickly moved on to the NFL. He was selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the third overall pick in the 2004 NFL draft.
Fitzgerald dedicated his efforts to playing at the professional level. He spent his entire 17-year career with the Cardinals. He didn’t take up any coaching role at the college level during his career.
Instead, he focused on solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history.
What Awards Did Larry Fitzgerald Accomplish In College Football?
In college, Larry Fitzgerald earned several prestigious awards. He was a unanimous All-American in 2003, which is a significant honor in college football.
Fitzgerald also won the Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top wide receiver and the Walter Camp Player of the Year. These awards reflected his exceptional talent and impact on the field.
Additionally, he finished second in the Heisman Trophy voting in 2003, one of the highest honors in college football. His numerous awards highlighted his extraordinary college career and set him apart as a top player.
What Bowl Games Did Larry Fitzgerald Win In College Football?
Larry Fitzgerald played in two bowl games with the Pittsburgh Panthers. In 2002, he participated in the Insight Bowl, where Pitt secured a victory over Oregon State.
In 2003, Fitzgerald played in the Continental Tire Bowl. Despite his efforts and an impressive performance, Pitt lost to Virginia.
Though he didn’t win numerous bowl games, his individual performances in these games were noteworthy. These games showcased his ability to perform under pressure and his potential that eventually led him to the NFL.
Larry Fitzgerald’s contributions to Pittsburgh Panthers football cannot be overstated. His college career set multiple records and paved the way for his future successes.
Larry Fitzgerald Professional Football Career
Larry Fitzgerald had an illustrious professional football career, marked by his long tenure with the Arizona Cardinals and numerous accolades. This section explores his NFL journey, coaching engagements, awards, and Super Bowl experiences.
Did Larry Fitzgerald Play In The NFL?
Yes, Larry Fitzgerald played in the NFL. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals with the third overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft. Larry spent his entire 17-season career with the Cardinals. His career spanned from 2004 to 2020, establishing him as one of the most dedicated and iconic wide receivers in the league’s history.
Fitzgerald played in 263 games and had 1,432 receptions, making him one of the most prolific receivers. Known for his consistency and reliability, he made a significant impact on the field with his impressive touchdown receptions and yardage.
Did Larry Fitzgerald Coach In The NFL?
Larry Fitzgerald did not transition into a coaching role in the NFL after retiring from playing. While his deep knowledge and experience in professional football would make him an asset in any coaching capacity, he has not taken up any formal coaching titles.
Instead, Fitzgerald has focused on other interests and philanthropic efforts. His absence from coaching has left fans wondering what unique insights he could have brought to the game from a coaching perspective.
What Awards Did Larry Fitzgerald Accomplish In Professional Football?
Larry Fitzgerald’s career is filled with numerous prestigious awards and recognitions. He was selected to the Pro Bowl 11 times, underscoring his consistent performance and excellence on the field. Fitzgerald was also named to the NFL 100 All-Time Team, recognizing him as one of the greatest players in the history of professional football.
During his career, he became one of the few players to amass over 17,000 receiving yards. His achievements and impact on the game earned him a spot in the Hall of Fame.
Did Larry Fitzgerald Win A Super Bowl?
Larry Fitzgerald came close to winning a Super Bowl with the Arizona Cardinals but ultimately did not secure a championship ring. His closest opportunity came in Super Bowl XLIII, held in February 2009. The Cardinals faced the Pittsburgh Steelers in a closely contested game.
Fitzgerald made critical plays, including a memorable 64-yard touchdown reception that gave the Cardinals the lead late in the game. However, the Steelers won the game 27-23, dashing Fitzgerald’s hopes of securing a Super Bowl victory. His performance in that game remains one of the highlights of his storied career.
What Is Larry Fitzgerald Up To Now?
Larry Fitzgerald remains active and influential in various fields since stepping away from the football field. His activities include involvement in football, public speaking, podcasting, and broadcasting.
Is Larry Fitzgerald Still Involved In Football?
Larry Fitzgerald has not officially retired from professional football, even though he last played in an NFL game almost two years ago. He maintains connections with the sport through various channels, such as mentoring young athletes and occasionally attending team events.
During his career, he played exclusively for the Arizona Cardinals, distinguishing himself alongside other greats like Randy Moss and Jerry Rice. Though he isn’t playing, his legacy and presence in football remain strong.
Does Larry Fitzgerald Do Private Speaking Engagements?
Larry Fitzgerald is active in the speaking circuit, leveraging his Hall of Fame career to inspire and educate. He often speaks about his experiences, sharing insights from his time with the Cardinals and lessons learned from his mentors and peers.
These engagements allow him to connect with fans and communities, much like his peers. Topics often include leadership, perseverance, and the importance of support systems, areas he is well-versed in, both from sports and personal experience.
Does Larry Fitzgerald Have A Podcast?
Yes, Larry Fitzgerald has co-hosted a podcast that delves into various topics beyond football. His podcast has featured discussions on sports, personal development, and interviews with notable figures from different fields.
Listeners enjoy his clear and confident conversational style, which provides a thoughtful perspective on current issues and timeless topics alike. This media presence allows him to stay connected with fans and share his insights in an accessible format.
Has Larry Fitzgerald Gone Into Broadcasting?
Larry Fitzgerald has ventured into broadcasting, bringing his knowledge and experience to sports media. He has appeared as a guest analyst on several sports networks, including coverage of NFL games and other football-related events.
These appearances allow him to provide expert commentary and analysis, drawing on his extensive career and knowledge of the game. His neutral and clear communication style makes him a valuable asset to any broadcasting team, enriching the viewer’s understanding of the sport.
What Is Larry Fitzgerald Net Worth?
Larry Fitzgerald has accumulated substantial wealth during his career. His net worth is estimated to be around $50 million according to Sportskeeda.
NFL Salary:
- Fitzgerald earned approximately $180 million from his NFL salary alone (Celebrity Net Worth).
- He played 17 seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, starting from the 2004 NFL Draft.
Endorsements:
- In addition to his NFL earnings, Fitzgerald also earned about $10 million from endorsements.
- Brands he endorsed include Nike and Lenovo, which significantly boosted his income.
Salary Breakdown by Year:
- 2004: $1 million
- 2005: $1.4 million
- 2006: $1.7 million
- 2007: $10 million
- 2008-2020: $166 million combined
(Note: Salary figures are approximate.)
Career Highlights:
- Eleven-time Pro Bowl selection
- Inducted into the Football Hall of Fame in 2024 (National Football Foundation)
Larry Fitzgerald has not only earned impressive sums through his football career and endorsements, but he has also made wise investments, further increasing his financial standing.