winklogo200.png

Larry Fitzgerald

Born August 31, 1983, Larry Fitzgerald is synonymous with reliability and class and forged a remarkable...

Greatest Pro Team
Who was the MOST DOMINANT team in Pro Football History? We have the answer in the latest Pigskin Dispatch book

The World's Greatest Pro Gridiron Team

FREE Daily Sports History
You are only seconds away from receiving the Pigpen's Newsletter everyday filled with new items

SUBSCRIBE BY CLICKING _________________________  
We have placed some product links on this page. If you purchase by clicking on them, we will get a commission to use to help with operating costs.
College HOF

"Larry Fitzgerald: A Model of Consistency and Excellence"

Last updated 📅 2024-08-31

Born August 31, 1983, Larry Fitzgerald is synonymous with reliability and class and forged a remarkable football career marked by exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. His journey from a standout college player to a future Hall of Famer in the NFL is a testament to his work ethic and passion for the game.

Image courtesy of "PIGSKINDISPATCH.COM"

College Career

Fitzgerald's collegiate career at the University of Pittsburgh was brief but impactful. He established himself as one of the nation's premier receivers in just two seasons. His exceptional hands, route-running ability, and knack for making contested catches made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. In 2003, he earned unanimous All-American honors and won the Biletnikoff Award, recognizing him as the nation's top receiver. He left Pitt after his sophomore year, leaving a legacy of dominance.  

Road to the Pro Game

Fitzgerald's stellar college performance made him a highly coveted prospect in the 2004 NFL Draft. The Arizona Cardinals selected him with the third overall pick, a decision that would prove transformative for the franchise. His transition to the NFL was seamless, and he quickly established himself as a premier receiver.  

Football Legacy

Fitzgerald spent his entire 17-season NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals, becoming the face of the franchise and a beloved figure in the state of Arizona. His consistency was remarkable, and he was known for his durability and reliability. He was a master of contested catches, possessing exceptional hand-eye coordination and a knack for making difficult receptions. Beyond his on-field performance, Fitzgerald was renowned for his character and leadership. He was a role model for his teammates and a respected figure throughout the league. He became a symbol of professionalism and sportsmanship.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

11x Pro Bowl selection

1x First-team All-Pro

2x Second-team All-Pro  

Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2016)

Biletnikoff Award (2003)  

Unanimous All-American (2003)

NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

Career Stats:

1,432 receptions  

17,492 receiving yards  

121 touchdowns

Larry Fitzgerald's legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics. He was a player who embodied the best qualities of the game, demonstrating exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and exemplary character. He left an enduring mark on the Arizona Cardinals and the NFL, solidifying his place as one of the greatest receivers in football history.

  • TITLE: Larry Fitzgerald: A Model of Consistency and Excellence
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Larry Fitzgerald
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Wide Receiver
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Arizona Cardinals, Pitt Panthers
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number 01
  • NFL JERSEY: Number 11
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame

College HOF

"The Electric Anthony Carter: A Legacy Forged in Maize and Blue"

Born September 17, 1960, was Anthony Carter, a three-time NFL Pro Bowl wide receiver and original USFL player who attended the University of Michigan.
  • TITLE: The Electric Anthony Carter: A Legacy Forged in Maize and Blue
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Anthony Carter
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Wide Receiver
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Detroit Lions, Michigan Panthers, Michigan Wolverines, Minnesota Vikings
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number 01
  • NFL JERSEY: Number 81
  • OTHER: USFL Player
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame
From his electrifying college days to his impactful professional career, Anthony Carter's football journey cemented his place as a legend. His blend of speed, agility, and playmaking ability made him a game-changer at every level...

College HOF

"Jeff Bentrim Record-Setting North Dakota State Quarterback"

Jeff Bentrim, born June 21, 1965, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, carved a unique football legacy. At North Dakota State University, he quarterbacked the Bison to three consecutive Division II national championships (1988-1990). His dual-threat ability, combining pinpoint passing with elusive running, made him a dominant force.
  • TITLE: Jeff Bentrim Record-Setting North Dakota State Quarterback
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Jeff Bentrin
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Quarterback
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number 01
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame
Bentrim's collegiate career at North Dakota State University redefined Division II quarterback play. He achieved unprecedented dominance, starting in four national championship games and securing three titles...

College HOF

"David Williams Illinois' College Football Hall of Fame Receiver"

David Williams, born on June 10, 1963, in Los Angeles, California, etched his name into football history through his remarkable collegiate career at the University of Illinois.  
  • TITLE: David Williams Illinois' College Football Hall of Fame Receiver
  • FOOTBALL NAME: David Williams
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Wide Receiver
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Illinois Fighting Illini
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number 01
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame
A leading receiver for the Illini and all of College Football. College Career Williams's time with the Illinois Fighting Illini from 1983 to 1985 was nothing short of spectacular...

College HOF

"Vince Banonis"

Vince Banonis, born April 9, 1921, in Detroit, Michigan, to a Lithuanian family, etched his name into football history through a career marked by exceptional skill and leadership. From his Detroit roots to NFL championships, Banonis left an enduring legacy.  
  • TITLE: Vince Banonis
  • DOB: April 09
  • EVENTDAY: April 09
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Vince Banonis
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Tackle
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Arizona Cardinals, Chicago Cardinals, Detroit Lions
  • HOCKEY POSITION: Center
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number 01, Number 23
  • NFL JERSEY: Number 11, Number 32, Number 51
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame
College Career Banonis's football journey began at Detroit Catholic Central High School, where he captained the city championship-winning team. He then enrolled at the University of Detroit in 1938, playing center for the Detroit Titans from 1939 to 1941 under coach Gus Dorais...

Proud to Support The Professional Football Researchers Association
To learn more about joining the go to The Official PFRA Website. _________________________

Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
We invite you to take a ride through 1920's sports history in the audio drama that takes the listener through the sounds and legendary events of the era through the eyes of a young newspaper journalist. You will feel like you were there! Brought to you by Number 80 Productions and Pigskin Dispatch _________________________

Sports Jersey Dispatch
If you like remembering players of the NFL by their numbers then you may also enjoy going uniform number by number in othre team sports as well. We have it for you on our other website in baseball, basketball, hockey and more on the Sports Jersey Dispatch. _________________________