Larry Fitzgerald expected to play
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) runs the ball in the first quarter against the St. Louis Rams at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Arizona Cardinals superstar wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald is highly questionable to play in today’s rivalry game against the Seattle Seahawks at 4:05 p.m. ET, but there is increasing optimism that he will be available for the Cardinals. It would never be wise to bet against Fitzgerald playing even if he is a game-time decision, but it now looks like Fitzgerald will likely play.
The NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that Fitzgerald is expected to play, and this is great news for fantasy owners in “Championship Week”. Although owners should have a “Plan B” ready to plug-in if Fitzgerald is inactive, he is a must-start right now with this news in mind.
Fitzgerald suffered a concussion last week against the Tennessee Titans, but he was able to practice on Thursday and Friday. At this point, the only hurdle remaining for Fitzgerald is the final mandated concussion test in the league’s protocol, and failure to pass that means that Fitzgerald wouldn’t be able to play today. It doesn’t sound like Fitzgerald passed that test, but it certainly sounds like the Cardinals are optimistic that he will be able to pass the final concussion test and suit up against Richard Sherman and the Seahawks.
In 14 games this season, the Pittsburgh product has hauled in 73 receptions for 823 yards and ten touchdowns, and he’s as reliable as they come. Both Fitzgerald and Michael Floyd create one of the league’s best wide receiver duos, and that’s really helped veteran passer Carson Palmer quite a bit. Be sure to check back for more updates, because Fitzgerald isn’t a lock to play by any means.