How would Larry Fitzgerald look in a No. 11 Pittsburgh Steelers or New England Patriots jersey?
The greatest wide receiver in Arizona Cardinals history acknowledged Thursday that his future in the desert is up in the air, courtesy of a $23.6 million salary cap number for 2015.
"I could go out this year and get 2,600 yards and that cap number is still going to have to be addressed, know what I mean?" Fitzgerald said, via the Cardinals' official website. "It doesn't matter how well I play or how bad I play, it's going to be addressed. I don't even think about it."
General manager Steve Keim and team president Michael Bidwill have made no secret of their desire to have Fitzgerald finish his career in a Cardinals uniform. The wide receiver has returned the sentiment.
Finding common ground is easier said than done, however.
Fitzgerald's contract gives him the upper hand in negotiations. The organization might attempt to extract leverage of their own with summer sensation John Browntaking on the look of an impact rookie alongside Michael Floyd.
If the Cardinals lowball Fitzgerald, he will have no shortage of suitors.
The New England Patriots reportedly "sent out feelers" to gauge the possibility of acquiring Fitzgerald two offseasons ago.
The potential Hall of Famer also has connections in Minnesota and Pittsburgh.
Fitzgerald is a native of Minneapolis, where he has strong roots, including a father revered as a longtime sports journalist. He played his college ball at Pitt. Todd Haley, the Cardinals' offensive coordinator during Fitzgerald's historic playoff run leading up to Super Bowl XLIII, is now calling plays for the Steelers.
After a pair of hamstring injuries limited Fitzgerald last season, the Cardinals have to be excited that he was once again exhibiting that Super Bowl form last month.
The two sides have six more months of bliss before the contract hammer drops.
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