Football and Philanthropic Legend Larry Fitzgerald Jr. to Receive 2025 Heisman Humanitarian Award
The Heisman Trophy Trust is proud to announce football and philanthropic legend, Larry Fitzgerald, Jr., as the recipient of the 2025 Heisman Humanitarian Award.
Fitzgerald Jr. starred at the University of Pittsburgh from 2002–2003, earning unanimous All-American honors and finishing as a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2003 with 161 receptions for 2,677 yards, and a Pitt record 34 touchdowns. He went on to play 17 seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, finishing his professional career ranked second all-time in receptions and receiving yards. An 11-time Pro Bowl selection, Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, and Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award recipient, Fitzgerald Jr. is celebrated for his excellence on the field and his enduring leadership, integrity, and commitment to service.
Off the field, Fitzgerald Jr. has long dedicated himself to creating opportunities for others through The Larry Fitzgerald Foundation. Founded in 2005, the Foundation focuses on two core pillars: supporting youth education and promoting breast cancer awareness. Through literacy programs, technology access, scholarships, and after-school support, the Foundation empowers underserved students across Arizona, Minnesota, and beyond. Internationally, Fitzgerald Jr. has led service trips to Africa to build classrooms and strengthen educational infrastructure in rural communities.
Fitzgerald Jr. also launched the “Breast Believe” campaign, which delivers vital education, prevention, and support resources to women and families in need of support surrounding breast cancer. From backpack drives and youth camps, to health screenings and mentorship, Fitzgerald Jr. remains personally involved in ensuring the Foundation’s work makes a lasting impact within their communities.
“With the Heisman Humanitarian Award, we honor Larry Fitzgerald, Jr. for his remarkable leadership, generosity, and commitment to making a difference. Through his foundation and the countless charitable initiatives he is involved with, he has supported children, families, and communities in need across the country,” stated Michael Comerford, Heisman Trophy Trust President. “Larry’s compassion and dedication reflect the highest ideals of philanthropy, and it is our privilege to recognize the lasting impact of his work. His efforts have not only uplifted lives but also exemplify the values that lie at the heart of the Heisman Trust’s mission.”
Fitzgerald Jr. will be honored at the Heisman Legends Brunch in New York City, where the Trust will present him with a $75,000 donation to support The Larry Fitzgerald Foundation’s youth education and breast cancer initiatives.
“I’m honored by this recognition from The Heisman Trophy Trust. The Larry Fitzgerald Foundation is committed to empowering children and supporting families affected by breast cancer, a mission inspired by my mother. This honor reinforces the importance of our work and inspires us to continue creating meaningful impact,” stated Fitzgerald Jr.
The Heisman Trophy Trust’s mission is to grow the legacy and preserve the integrity of the Heisman Memorial Trophy, which is annually awarded to the outstanding college football player in the United States whose performance epitomizes great ability combined with diligence, perseverance, and hard work.
Beyond awarding the trophy, the Trust has a charitable mission to support and fund youth development programs in underserved communities throughout the country. Additionally, the Trust annually presents the Heisman Humanitarian Award to outstanding individuals in the sports world who further the Heisman vision. Our goal is to harness the power of the Heisman Trophy’s legacy of athletic excellence to positively impact our nation’s youth and provide more equitable opportunities for underserved communities.
Fitzgerald is the 19th Heisman Humanitarian Winner, joining a distinguished group of past recipients, including Jeff Gordon, Mia Hamm, David Robinson, Kristi Yamaguchi, Ernie Els, and Coach Mike Krzyzewski, individuals who embody both excellence in sport and a profound commitment to service.
Tickets for the 2025 Heisman Legends Brunch, where Fitzgerald Jr. will be honored, are available for purchase HERE.
