Arizona Cardinals Win Proves Why Fitz Needs To Stay

Oct 27, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) warms up prior to the game against the Atlanta Falcons at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Even though he only had four catches in the 27-13 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, today proved several reasons why the Arizona Cardinals should not trade receiver Larry Fitzgerald.  He has been the subject of trade rumors not only locally but nationally over the past couple of weeks.  It is understandable why but really, at least for this season, he needs to stay here.

Fitz had 48 yards on his four receptions but he also had a touchdown.  Today really was more about the running game rather than the passing game.  Really no receiver had a big day.  The big day belonged to running back Andre Ellington.

Fitz though, who became the youngest player to reach 800 receptions today, proved once again his value to the organization.  He is playing less than 100 percent but even at less than 100 percent he looks better than most.  You’d never know he is running at less than that.  He had a beautiful catch in the back of the end zone today for his touchdown.

He received a several minute standing ovation when his 800 reception plateau was announced.  He also provided a key block on the edge as Ellington broke free for his 80-yard run.  He has done the same in several other games this year.  He is the consummate professional and just wants to win.

It is that thirst for winning that has many Cards fans wanting to trade him now for the future.  I get that sentiment since he can still bring value in return, however it is winning that must keep Fitz in Arizona, at least for the rest of this season.  After the season?  We’ll chat later.

As I’ve been saying for two weeks, it was going to be tough to beat Seattle and San Francisco but they had a very winnable schedule for the foreseeable future after those two games.  They passed the first test by beating a struggling Atlanta team.  Now, they get a bye and then face 2-5 Houston and 0-8 Jacksonville before a home game against Indianapolis November 24th.  They could be 6-4 after Houston and Jacksonville.  One game at a time though.  The Cards are still in the hunt.  Therefore, until that is not the case, Fitz still needs to be a part of this team.  That means he stays for the season as the trade deadline approaches this week.