Larry Fitzgerald Refuses to Announce Retirement, Despite Entering Hall of Fame

Larry Fitzgerald is joining Drew Brees and Luke Kuechly in the 2026 Hall of Fame class. He still refuses to say he's retired.

The Arizona Cardinals legend is protesting that word Aug 7, 2026 at 12:55 pm ET • 2 min read Getty Images Arizona Cardinals legend Larry Fitzgerald will be enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame this Saturday in Canton, Ohio. Players have to be retired for five straight seasons to qualify for the Hall of Fame, an

When I arrived to cover the Minnesota Vikings for the St. Paul Pioneer Press in 2000, it was clear I was dealing with a star-studded roster. The team boasted future Pro Football Hall of Famers; wide receivers Cris Carter and Randy Moss and defensive tackle John Randle. Plus, there were a ton of other stars including qu

The elder Fitzgerald passed away just months before the Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

Retirement is just a mindset for Larry Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald, who is going to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday, insisted that he hasn’t retired — because he doesn’t believe in the concept of retirement. The legendary wide receiver said that a conversation between his grandfather and former Chi

Fitzgerald played his final NFL season in 2020. When asked about retirement Thursday in Canton, he remarked, "I protest the word more than the actual thing."

Hall of Famer Larry Fitzgerald: I don't believe in retirement  ESPN

Tennis Channel announced it will exclusively broadcast the 2026 International Tennis Hall of Fame induction ceremony. This year’s event will honor 20-time major champion Roger Federer and journalist and former professional player Mary Carillo. Veteran Tennis Channel analyst Brett Haber will open the celebration, with s

A sports journalist, Larry Fitzgerald Sr. died in June at age 71. On Saturday, his son will enter the Hall of Fame with him there in spirit.