How Old Is Larry Fitzgerald? A Dive Into The Life And Legacy Of An NFL Legend

Ever wondered how old Larry Fitzgerald is? Well, buckle up because we’re about to take a trip down memory lane and uncover the truth behind this NFL powerhouse’s journey. Larry Fitzgerald isn’t just another athlete; he’s a living legend who has carved his name into the annals of football history. From his early days to his incredible career, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this iconic figure. So, let’s dive right in!

Larry Fitzgerald is more than just a name on the back of a jersey. He’s a symbol of perseverance, talent, and dedication. If you’re here wondering about his age or what makes him tick, you’re in the right place. This article isn’t just about numbers; it’s about understanding the man behind the stats and the impact he’s had on the sport and beyond.

As we explore how old Larry Fitzgerald is, we’ll also delve into his achievements, personal life, and the legacy he’s leaving behind. Whether you’re a die-hard NFL fan or someone who’s just curious about one of the greatest wide receivers of all time, this article has something for everyone. Let’s get started, shall we?

Before we jump into the details, let’s break it down with a quick table of contents to guide you through this journey:

Biography: The Early Years
How Old is Larry Fitzgerald?
Larry Fitzgerald’s NFL Career
Key Stats and Achievements
Personal Life and Family
Legacy and Impact
Retirement Plans and Future
Charitable Work and Community Involvement
Awards and Honors
Fun Facts About Larry Fitzgerald

Biography: The Early Years

Before we tackle the question of how old Larry Fitzgerald is, let’s rewind the clock and take a look at where it all began. Larry Fitzgerald Jr. was born on **May 31, 1983**, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. That’s right, folks—he’s a proud Midwesterner with a heart as big as the fields he played on. Growing up in a family that valued education and sports, Larry quickly showed promise on the gridiron.

His father, Larry Fitzgerald Sr., was a high school coach, and his mother, Carol, was a teacher. The combination of discipline and love for the game set the stage for Larry’s future success. By the time he reached high school, he was already making waves as a standout athlete. In fact, he was named Minnesota’s Mr. Football in 1999, setting the stage for his college career.

College Days: The Rise of a Star

After high school, Larry attended the University of Pittsburgh, where he quickly became a fan favorite. During his time with the Panthers, he shattered records and earned accolades, including being named a unanimous All-American. His college career laid the foundation for what was to come, and scouts took notice. By the time the NFL draft rolled around, Larry Fitzgerald was a name on everyone’s lips.

How Old is Larry Fitzgerald?

Alright, let’s cut to the chase. If you’re here wondering how old Larry Fitzgerald is, the answer is simple: as of 2023, Larry Fitzgerald is **40 years old**. Born on May 31, 1983, he’s a man who has seen it all—both on and off the field. But age is just a number when it comes to Larry. His passion for the game and his dedication to excellence have kept him at the top of his game for over a decade.

Interestingly, Larry has often spoken about the importance of staying young at heart. He credits his longevity in the NFL to a combination of hard work, discipline, and a love for the sport. Whether he’s still playing or transitioning into the next chapter of his life, Larry Fitzgerald remains an inspiration to fans of all ages.

Here’s a quick breakdown of Larry’s timeline:

1983: Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota
1999: Named Minnesota’s Mr. Football
2003: Drafted by the Arizona Cardinals
2021: Announced his retirement from the NFL

Larry Fitzgerald’s NFL Career

Now that we’ve established how old Larry Fitzgerald is, let’s talk about what he’s done in the NFL. Drafted by the Arizona Cardinals with the third overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, Larry quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier wide receivers. Over the course of his 17-year career, he became synonymous with the Cardinals, playing every single game for the team.

Key Moments in His Career

Larry Fitzgerald’s career is filled with unforgettable moments. Here are a few highlights:

2008 Super Bowl: Larry played a pivotal role in the Cardinals’ run to the Super Bowl, where they faced the Pittsburgh Steelers. Although they ultimately lost, Larry’s performance was nothing short of spectacular.
1000 Receptions: In 2017, Larry became the third player in NFL history to reach 1,000 career receptions, joining the likes of Jerry Rice and Isaac Bruce.
Leadership: Beyond his stats, Larry is known for his leadership on and off the field. He’s been a mentor to countless young players and a role model for the entire league.

Key Stats and Achievements

When it comes to Larry Fitzgerald’s stats, the numbers speak for themselves. Here’s a quick rundown:

Career Receptions: 1,432
Career Yards: 17,475
Career Touchdowns: 122

These numbers don’t just make Larry Fitzgerald one of the best wide receivers in NFL history; they solidify his place as one of the greatest players the league has ever seen. But stats only tell part of the story. Larry’s impact extends far beyond the numbers, as we’ll explore in the next section.

Personal Life and Family

So, how old is Larry Fitzgerald, and what does his personal life look like? Larry has always been private about his family, but we do know a few things. He’s the proud father of two daughters, whom he cherishes deeply. In interviews, Larry often speaks about the importance of balancing his career with family life, emphasizing the need to be present for the people who matter most.

Family Values

Larry’s upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of family values. His parents taught him the importance of education, hard work, and giving back to the community. These values have stayed with him throughout his life, shaping the man he is today. Whether he’s on the field or at home, Larry Fitzgerald is a testament to the power of a strong family foundation.

Legacy and Impact

When discussing how old Larry Fitzgerald is, it’s impossible not to talk about his legacy. Larry’s impact on the NFL extends beyond his stats and achievements. He’s been a trailblazer for young athletes, showing them that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about character, work ethic, and integrity.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Larry has been a vocal advocate for education and youth development. Through his foundation, the Larry Fitzgerald First Down Fund, he’s helped countless young people pursue their dreams and overcome challenges. His legacy isn’t just about what he’s accomplished on the field; it’s about the lives he’s touched and the inspiration he’s provided to future generations.

Retirement Plans and Future

With the question of how old Larry Fitzgerald is answered, many fans are curious about what’s next for the legend. Larry officially announced his retirement from the NFL in 2021, but that doesn’t mean he’s stepping away from the game entirely. He’s remained involved with the Arizona Cardinals, serving as a mentor and advisor to young players.

What’s Next?

Beyond football, Larry has expressed interest in pursuing business ventures and continuing his charitable work. He’s also been vocal about the importance of staying active and engaged in the community. Whether he’s mentoring young athletes or working on his next big project, Larry Fitzgerald remains a force to be reckoned with.

Charitable Work and Community Involvement

Throughout his career, Larry Fitzgerald has been a champion for charitable causes. His Larry Fitzgerald First Down Fund has raised millions of dollars for education, youth sports, and community programs. Larry believes that giving back is an essential part of being a successful athlete, and his actions speak volumes about his character.

Impact on the Community

Larry’s work extends beyond financial contributions. He’s been a hands-on advocate for education, visiting schools and speaking to students about the importance of staying in school and pursuing their dreams. His efforts have inspired countless young people to aim high and make a difference in their communities.

Awards and Honors

Over the course of his career, Larry Fitzgerald has received numerous awards and honors. Here are just a few:

11-Time Pro Bowl Selection
8-Time First-Team All-Pro
Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award (2016)

These accolades are a testament to Larry’s skill, dedication, and character. They also highlight his impact on the game and the lives of those around him.

Fun Facts About Larry Fitzgerald

Before we wrap up, here are a few fun facts about Larry Fitzgerald:

Larry is an avid golfer and has participated in several celebrity golf tournaments.
He’s a huge fan of classic cars and owns a collection of rare vehicles.
In his free time, Larry enjoys spending time with his family and mentoring young athletes.

These little details help paint a picture of Larry Fitzgerald as not just an athlete, but a well-rounded individual with a passion for life.

Conclusion

So, how old is Larry Fitzgerald? As of 2023, he’s 40 years old, but his legacy is timeless. From his incredible career in the NFL to his charitable work and community involvement, Larry Fitzgerald has left an indelible mark on the world. His story is one of perseverance, dedication, and inspiration, and it continues to resonate with fans of all ages.

We hope this article has given you a deeper understanding of Larry Fitzgerald and the impact he’s had on the sport and beyond. If you enjoyed this piece, feel free to share it with your friends and family. And don’t forget to check out our other articles for more insights into the world of sports and beyond!