The NFL world is still waiting to see whether or not Arizona Cardinals icon Larry Fitzgerald will retire or return for the 2021 season. With training camp approaching, one of his former teammates provided some insight on what the ultimate call might be.
Speculation about Fitzgerald retiring is nothing new. In fact, even his father indicated it was on the table after the 2019 season. Many wondered if, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, he might hang up his cleats to avoid playing in a challenging 2020 season.
But time and time again, the 6-foot-3 wide receiver returned to the field and suited up for the Cardinals. With Arizona just weeks away from training camp, there is still uncertainty regarding Fitzgerald’s future. But former teammate Patrick Peterson said on the All Things Covered podcast in June that he believes a decision might already be made.
“If he ain’t retired yet, he ain’t going to retire…I think they will find a way. If Larry wanted to come back later in the year, whenever the time may permit itself, they will find a way.”
Patrick Peterson on Larry Fitzgerald’s decision, via All Things Covered podcast
The Cardinals will report to training camp on July 27, so Fitzgerald still has several weeks before the first key date on the NFL offseason calendar. But there’s very little reason for the 37-year-old to make an announcement this month. He certainly deserved additional time to rest after a challenging year.
Arizona missed the NFL playoffs entirely and Fitzgerald tested positive for COVID-19. For the first time since 2014, he was unable to take the field with his teammates and ultimately missed three games.
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Whether it’s the Cardinals or another NFL team willing to sign him, Fitzgerald can take his time. He can spend the next month with his family before making a final decision regarding his status for the upcoming season. If he wants to play for what would be his 18th year, a team would be more than happy to sign him whenever he’s ready.
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