Larry Fitzgerald, the Arizona Cardinals’ legendary wide receiver, is set to enter the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Fitzgerald’s 17-year career with the Cardinals was marked by numerous records and accolades, including 17,492 career yards receiving, which ranks second in NFL history.

A Humble Beginning

Fitzgerald’s journey to the Hall of Fame began when he was drafted by the Cardinals in 2004. At just 20 years old, he had to learn how to do his own laundry, with the help of the team’s equipment staff. This humble beginning set the tone for his career, which was marked by hard work and dedication.

Fitzgerald’s favorite memories of his time with the Cardinals aren’t just about the team’s successes on the field, but also about the relationships he built with his teammates and the community. He recalls spending Thanksgiving with the team’s owner, Michael Bidwill, and his family, and visiting a local children’s hospital to spread cheer.

A Legacy of Excellence

Fitzgerald’s on-field accomplishments are a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. He holds numerous records, including the most yards receiving in a single postseason, and was an 11-time Pro Bowl selection. Despite playing with 22 different quarterbacks over the course of his career, Fitzgerald remained a consistent and dominant force on the field.

The Cardinals’ owner, Michael Bidwill, praised Fitzgerald’s professionalism and work ethic, saying, ‘He was always the first player at practice and the last guy off the field.’ Bidwill also noted that Fitzgerald had more career tackles than dropped passes, a statistic that speaks to his commitment to excellence.

Fitzgerald’s legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments. He is beloved in Arizona for his kindness, humility, and generosity. His decision to spend his final season playing in front of sparse crowds due to the COVID-19 pandemic was a testament to his dedication to the team and the sport.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.