Eric Sorenson
After announcing his intentions to return to the Arizona Cardinals, Larry Fitzgerald made it known he would address his future plans only once before the season started.
Sunday morning after the team walk through at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale the 33-year-old did just that reiterating his love for the game and the uncertainty of his future in football past this season.
#LarryFitzgerald fielding questions in Glendale. Says he hasn’t decided if 2017 will be his final season. #BirdGang pic.twitter.com/h7PGUBy8VQ
— Sports360AZ (@Sports360AZ) July 23, 2017
“Right now I’m still very passionate, I love to play,” Fitzgerald openly explained. “I enjoy being out there with the guys. That part of it is not a struggle. It’s not like pulling teeth. I don’t know what the future holds. That’s why this year is even more important.”
He said his only focus right now is getting ready for the upcoming and trying to get that elusive Super Bowl ring. Head coach Bruce Arians announced Saturday Fitzgerald will not play in the Cards’ in the Hall of Fame Game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday, August 3.
Fitzgerald reminds intent on walking away from the game, whenever that may be, being able to play at a high level. He mentioned a handful of iconic athletes like Tony Dorsett, Shaquille O’Neal, Willie Mays and others who called it a career far past their prime.
“I don’t want to be a stealer,” he said flashing a wide grin. “I don’t want to steal like that.”
#AZCardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald: Whenever he does retire, “it won’t be at a podium. No tears. That’s not how I am.” #CardsCamp
— Darren Urban (@Cardschatter) July 23, 2017
The iconic face of the franchise enters the season with 1,125 receptions for 14,389 yards and 104 touchdowns. He’s started 200 of his 202 career games with Arizona.
Last season Fitzgerald caught 107 passes for 1,023 yards and six touchdowns.
