Larry Fitzgerald
"Larry Fitzgerald: A Model of Consistency and Excellence"
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.
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
"The Electric Anthony Carter: A Legacy Forged in Maize and Blue"
- 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
"Jeff Bentrim Record-Setting North Dakota State Quarterback"
- 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
"David Williams Illinois' College Football Hall of Fame Receiver"
- 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
"Vince Banonis"
- 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