Pitt Athletics Hall of Fame
- Induction:
- 2023
- Class:
- 2004
One of the most dazzling receivers to ever play the game, Fitzgerald starred at Pitt from 2002-03 before going on to a prolific pro career. In just 26 collegiate games, Fitzgerald totaled 161 catches for 2,677 yards (16.6 avg.) and a Pitt-record 34 touchdowns. He caught a touchdown in an amazing 18 consecutive games to set an NCAA record. In total, Fitzgerald set or tied four NCAA marks, eight Big East records and 11 Pitt marks. In 2003, he was a virtually unstoppable offensive weapon, compiling 92 catches for 1,672 yards (18.2 avg.) and 22 touchdowns. Facing double and even triple coverage each week, Fitzgerald still led the nation in receiving yards per game (128.62 avg.) and TD catches.
He was named the 2003 Walter Camp Player of the Year, becoming the first sophomore to earn that prestigious honor. He also won the Biletnikoff Award as the country's top receiver and was unanimously selected a first team All-American. Fitzgerald finished as the Heisman Trophy runner-up and carried three voting regions, an unprecedented achievement for a sophomore. The third overall selection in the 2004 NFL Draft, Fitzgerald spent his entire 17-year pro career with the Arizona Cardinals (2004-20). An 11-time Pro Bowler and member of the NFL 100 All-Time Team, he ranks second in NFL history in receiving yards (17,492) and receptions (1,432), and sixth with 121 TD catches.
