Larry Fitzgerald Graduates From College, Fulfilling Promise To Late Mother


Larry Fitzgerald promised his mother, Carol, that he would graduate from college someday after leaving the University of Pittsburgh to pursue a career in the NFL. On Saturday, Fitzgerald made good on that promise, according to ESPN.

Larry, the talented veteran wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals, picked up his diploma in Marketing and Communications from the University of Phoenix. Ironically commencement ceremonies for the college Fitzgerald graduated from took place within the walls of the very stadium that made Larry an NFL star — the University of Phoenix Stadium. Though Fitzgerald’s mother Carol passed away in 2003, Larry’s graduation and completion of his life long goal didn’t go unnoticed by Fitz’s multitude of fans as Larry shared his accomplishment on Twitter.

Fitzgerald told ESPN that despite the loss of his mother to complications from her battle with breast cancer, it was important for him to follow through with his promise to her.

“I wanted to make sure I was doing what I promised her I’d do. I was the only one in my family who hadn’t graduated, so now, finally being able to graduate, I’m part of the family now, for real,” Fitzgerald said. Carol Fitzgerald had emphasized to her son the importance of an education and instilled in Larry the belief that with a college degree he would obtain life skills that could carry him beyond the football field.

Larry spent the past 13 years taking classes and studying both during the season and in the off-season. Fitzgerald’s choice to get his degree in Marketing in Communications shouldn’t come as a surprise as the nine time pro bowler can easily transition to an NFL broadcasting role following his eventual retirement from play. However, it may be a bit before Larry hangs up his cleats.

Last year, the aging Fitzgerald experienced one of his better seasons with the Cardinals, taking in a record 109 receptions for 1,215 yards and nine touchdowns. And despite the Cardinals dismantling in the NFC title game against the Panthers, Arizona is expected to have a successful 2016 with Larry Fitzgerald being an integral cog in the offensive machine.

As previously noted by the Inquisitr, Fitzgerald is expected to have another breakout season this year. While Larry initially struggled to find his role on the field when head coach Bruce Arians took the reins in 2013, both Arians and Fitz have found a way to capitalize on Larry’s talent and leadership qualities.

One of the most impressive non-receiving plays for Fitzgerald came in 2015, when Larry’s pancake block against the Minnesota Vikings allowed Michael Floyd the opportunity to get in the end zone for a touchdown. Fitzgerald’s block was an imperative piece in the Cardinals securing victory in a tight game, according to NFL.com.

Larry Fitzgerald dives into the end zone for a Cardinals overtime victory against the Packers in the 2015 NFL Playoffs. Image via Christian Peterson/Getty.
Larry Fitzgerald dives into the end zone for a Cardinals overtime victory against the Packers in the 2015 NFL Playoffs. Image via Christian Peterson/Getty.

Fitzgerald’s clutch play in the Cardinals playoff game against the Packers, as previously reported by Inquisitr, once again saved the team from elimination, keeping their Super Bowl dreams alive. Though Fitzgerald and the Cardinals have yet to take home Super Bowl Championship rings, they are anticipated to be one of the top contenders for the 2016 season.

A true team player, Larry Fitzgerald has become not only the face of the Arizona Cardinals organization, but the heart and soul of the team. Fitzgerald’s philanthropic endeavors, including his breast cancer awareness fundraising in memory of his mother Carol, have endeared him to the community. While Larry’s stellar field play will undoubtedly land him in the NFL Hall of Fame, his integrity in finishing his college education will assuredly seal his fate as a role model.

Larry Fitzgerald enjoys a meal with some United States soldiers. Fitzgerald has openly supported veterans, education, breast cancer awareness, and many other philanthropic endeavors. Image via Larry Fitzgerald Official Facebook.
Larry Fitzgerald enjoys a meal with some United States soldiers. Fitzgerald has openly supported veterans, education, breast cancer awareness, and many other philanthropic endeavors. Image via Larry Fitzgerald Official Facebook.

Without a doubt, somewhere the spirit of Carol Fitzgerald is smiling at her son’s accomplishments both in the record books and the grade books.

Congratulations, Larry!

[Larry Fitzgerald cover image via Norm Hall/Getty Images.]

Share this article: Larry Fitzgerald Graduates From College, Fulfilling Promise To Late Mother
More from Inquisitr