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Arizona Cardinals legend Larry Fitzgerald claims he is not retired. However, don’t expect him to attempt a comeback to the NFL. This week, Fitzgerald received his gold jacket and enshrinement in the 2026 class of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. It was a moment Cardinals fans had long expected, after a career that placed him among the greatest wide receivers ever to strap on a helmet and play in the NFL. Fitzgerald is No. 1 in Cardinals history for receiving yards by nearly 10,000 (17,492). He is also first in catches (1,432) and, of course, touchdowns (121). But he isn’t just the greatest WR in Arizona history. The 11-time Pro Bowler is second all-time in receiving yards and catches — only behind Jerry Rice — and sixth in TDs. The 42-year-old being a first-ballot Hall of Famer was a lock when he retired from the sport six years ago. However, while he is considered retired by fans and those around the NFL, Fitzgerald told the Cardinals team website this week that he isn’t. “I have not committed to retirement. They’d talk about retirement killing more people in our country than anything,” Fitzgerald said. “It always stuck with me. I just don’t believe in retirement.” – Larry Fitzgerald Is Larry Fitzgerald planning a return to the NFL? These are very different times when it comes to professional athletes. In the early 2000s and in the decades before, when an athlete hit their mid-30s, they were near the end of their career. However, star players continuing their careers into their 40s is no longer uncommon. NFL and NBA great Tom Brady and LeBron James are the best examples. In theory, if Fitzgerald could be in great shape a few weeks away from turning 43 and could try to return to the field. In theory. But don’t worry, Cardinals fans, the member of the All-2010s team isn’t planning to do that. Not being retired is just an outlook on the rest of his life, not a sign that he wants to get back into the NFL. “I just think you transition into different phases, especially as an athlete. I was done at 38. Retire? There is no retirement in sight. I protest the word more than the actual thing. So I just won’t acknowledge that.” – Larry Fitzgerald Tap Here To Add Sportsnaut As A Trusted Source on Google