Ian Rapaport has reported that Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald will retire after the 2016 NFL season. The 33-year-old “has told people close to him that he expects” this will be his last year in the NFL, according to Rapaport.
It kind of leaves a bad taste in your mouth. As a dedicated Arizona Cardinals fan the emotions felt from this news run uncontrollable and oh, so deep. It is an unpleasant amalgam that cuts like a jagged knife straight through the heart.
Larry Fitzgerald Retiring After 2016 Season
There has been speculation about his retirement for some time. Actually, Fitzgerald has been asked about it several times in various forms over the past few weeks. According to Kent Somers, “Fitz” was asked again on Tuesday morning about his plans beyond this season. Fitzgerald responded with a joke.
“(General Manager) Steve Keim saw me in the hallway the other day, he offered me a three, four year extension,” Fitzgerald said. “But I told him I’m going to have to get back with him in a little bit. We’ll see where we’re at.”
Larry Darnell Fitzgerald Jr. has played 12 seasons with the Cardinals. This year will be his 13th. Fitz has spent his entire NFL career as a Cardinal. He was drafted third overall by the Cardinals in 2004. He attended college at Pittsburgh.
Fitzgerald has been to nine Pro Bowls, and made seven straight Pro Bowl appearances from 2007-2013.
Fitzgerald has only missed six games in his entire 12 years with the Cardinals.
Last season, Fitz led the Cardinals with 109 receptions, 1,215 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns.
Now at 33 years of age, Fitzgerald is the youngest player to record 1000 catches.
Only time will tell if Fitzgerald is is truly serious about 2016 being his final NFL season, but as of now it looks like it will be.
Main Photo
