First career spike bittersweet for Arizona Cardinals legend

Arizona Cardinals’ wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald executed a spike for the first time of his illustrious career last Sunday

Arizona Cardinals fans were stunned. Their legendary wide receiver, Larry Fitzgerald, had made a habit of not spiking the football throughout his spectacular 15-year career. That all changed this past Sunday during the club’s 18-15 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.

Fitzgerald had just scored on a two-point conversion attempt, giving the Cardinals a crucial three-point advantage late in the fourth quarter. But instead of executing his customary flip of the football to the nearest official, the wideout unleashed a violent spike. A display of unbridled emotion that Fitzgerald felt compelled to explain at the postgame press conference.

It seems that the 35-year old’s oldest son, Devin, had chosen to skip the Cards game in favor of the Arizona State Fair. Fitzgerald was noticeably upset by the snub, and let it be known that he was hurt by his child’s decision. The 11-time Pro Bowler was apparently playing with a heavy heart against the 49ers, and ended up releasing some of his frustration with the spike.

Following the contest, Fitzgerald said he was sorry to the kids who watch football. The third-overall pick of the 2004 draft talked of setting a bad example for the youngsters. Anyone who has followed the man since he came into the league knows that his statements were completely heartfelt.

In an age where end zone celebrations have become more commonplace than ever, Fitzgerald has been a breath of fresh air. The future Hall of Famer was once told to act like you’ve been there before when you score a touchdown. The fact that he has adhered to that for such a long time is just another reason to have the utmost respect for Fitzgerald.

In retrospect, his spike wasn’t even that egregious. The choreographed charades that occur after scores these days are incredibly cringe-worthy. What Fitzgerald did was nothing compared to what many players elect to display in today’s NFL.

Fitzgerald’s apology for his actions last weekend was totally unnecessary. However, we’ve come to expect nothing less from such a classy individual. Arizona’s favorite son is the last of a dying breed, and will be sorely missed when he finally decides to hang up the cleats.