Larry Fitzgerald's 17-year NFL career was defined by a second act that began in college at Pitt, where he redefined what a wide receiver could look like. Before Canton, he crafted his game over two years, earning respect from future NFL stars, setting receiving records, nearly winning a Heisman, and giving the world its first glimpse of a legend in the making. At Pitt, Fitzgerald's unique body control and raw ability set him apart.

He was head and shoulders above the next guy, a man among boys, and his blue-collar mentality resonated with teammates and coaches alike. His physical ability was impressive, but it was his demeanor away from the field that set him apart. Fitzgerald was quiet at first, but his demeanor was different.

He was locked in on a mission, and he was not going to let any distractions prohibit him from achieving greatness. The world quickly saw Fitzgerald's talent. In his second career game, a 14-12 loss to Texas A&M, Fitzgerald had 10 catches for 103 yards.

R. C. Slocum, Texas A&M head coach, 1989-2002, said Fitzgerald was the real deal.

Dino Babers, Texas A&M offensive coordinator, 2001-02; Pitt assistant, 2003, said Fitzgerald was still killing them. Fitzgerald's physical ability was impressive, but it was his demeanor away from the field that set him apart. Rob Blanc, Pitt head athletic trainer, 1992-present, said when he first came in, he was quiet, but there was something about him.

Lousaka Polite, Pitt running back, 1999-2003, said Fitzgerald was locked in on a mission. Roth: Larry wasn't in base personnel.