Larry Fitzgerald Announces Surprise Return to NFL in Interim Role with Arizona Cardinals
PHOENIX (May 24, 2025) — Where: Arizona Cardinals headquarters and home games. What: Former All-Pro wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, retired since 2020, has signed a one-day contract to serve as an interim assistant coach for the final four games of the regular season. The move comes after the Cardinals suffered a series of injuries to their wide receiver corps. When: The announcement was made today by team officials. Who: Fitzgerald, 41, who holds franchise records for receptions and receiving yards, will work directly with offensive coordinator Drew Petzing to mentor younger players, though he will not be eligible to suit up as a player. Why: "We need his leadership, his football IQ, and his unmatched work ethic to stabilize our locker room," said head coach Jonathan Gannon. Fitzgerald, a 11-time Pro Bowler, emphasized he has no plans to return to playing, calling this a "temporary mission to uplift a struggling squad." How: Fitzgerald will immediately join practice sessions at the team's Tempe facility, with a focus on route-running technique and sideline discipline. The Cardinals, currently at a 3-10 record, hope Fitzgerald's presence can revitalize team morale during a challenging stretch.