In 2004, the Cardinals chose an All-American wide receiver out of the University of Pittsburgh as their third round overall pick. Fast forward to 2017 and not only has the all pro become an inspiration on the field by etching himself into Cardinals history books, owning the franchise records for most receiving yards and touchdowns, but he has also become an inspiration off the field. Let’s get to know the ten-time Pro Bowler with 5 Fun Facts About Larry Fitzgerald Jr.
1. While at University Of Pittsburgh, Fitz won the Walter Camp Player of the Year award, an award reserved for the best player in college football; the Fred Biletnikoff award, which is for the nation’s top college football receiver; and he was a Heisman Trophy finalist, where he came in second in the voting. That year, Fitz was up against some other NFL names you might know like Eli Manning, Ben Roethlesberger and Philip Rivers.
2. Larry Fitzgerald started his own travel company and has been to 93 countries and counting. Larry’s company, Nomad Hill, is dedicated to creating life changing experiences for his guests.
3. “Larry Legend” has never been a stranger to the sports world and the sports media. In fact, Larry Fitzgerald Senior was a sports reporter for the Minnesota Vikings for over 25 years. Larry Jr. grew up around football and around football players, learning from an early age how to respect not only the game, but also the media.
4. Former Vikings and Cardinals Head Coach, the late Dennis Green, as a favor to Fitzgerald Senior, not only gave Fitz his first NFL job by signing him to the Cardinals in the 2004 draft, but Green was also the one to give Larry his first ever job as the Minnesota Vikings ball boy.
5. Larry Fitzgerald doesn’t just like to just talk the talk, he also walks the walk. Larry is very involved with charities and giving back. In 2016, he won the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award for his consistent efforts with both. His foundation, the First Down Fund, donates time, money and resources to numerous organizations across the country. One of my favorite of his events is his celebrity softball event. It brings athletes and charities together for a great time every year.
LARRY FITZ IS TRUE CLASS ON AND OFF THE FIELD.
[NFL-Cardinals-footer] [NFL-Crucial-Catch]Photo Credits:
- Larry Fitzgerald on flickr by Brook Ward