Passing on this 1969 Pontiac GTO, which once belonged to a major NFL star, would be a mistake. D2

Do you recall the Seinfeld episode where George foolishly assumed that a Chrysler LeBaron Convertible formerly belonged to actor Jon Voight and bought it for himself? It turns out that John Voight, a periodontist, was the prior owner of the vehicle. We can easily get why someone might desire to possess a car that had belonged to a well-known celebrity, even though the lesson of that story is evident.

So be it if such a car is a straightforward LeBaron. However, if the vehicle in issue is a real superstar in its own right, like the 1969 Pontiac GTO is, that degree of attraction is multiplied tenfold.

The GTO nameplate needs no introduction among muscle car enthusiasts. Its origin story is tremendous, and since you probably like big names getting thrown around, know that one John DeLorean was part of the team responsible for the creation of the original Pontiac GTO, in the early 1960s. DeLorean would, of course, go on to establish an automotive company of his own, creating a car capable of sending teenagers back in time. Allegedly.

On a more serious note, let’s recall a few things about the second-generation Pontiac GTO, which was in production between 1968 and 1972. Compared to its predecessors, these newer models looked more streamlined, featuring a shorter wheelbase, headlights positioned horizontally (available as hidden), dual hood scoops, and more.

The vent windows for the doors were removed for the 1969 model year, while the grille and taillights saw some improvements.

These were powerful straight-line vehicles, and the Midnight Green one we found here just so happens to have a 400 ci Ram Air III V8 engine with a 366 horsepower factory rating. Functional hood scoops, a four-barrel Holley carburetor, a cast aluminum intake manifold, an aluminum radiator, and a three-speed Turbo-Hydramatic automatic gearbox are all included with the vehicle.

Other general highlights include the body color front bumper, hidden quad headlights, driver-side mirror, recessed wipers, dual exhaust outlets, Rally II 15-inch wheels with 235/60 BFGoodrich Radial TA tires, power steering, power-assisted front discs, black vinyl front bucket seats, faux woodgrain trim, air conditioning, a three-spoke steering wheel and a dash-mounted lever that controls the Ram Air flapper door.

I can imagine your question: Who on earth was this car’s owner? What NFL player? Was it really a “big star” or was it simply some NFL player who earned the title “star” while never having a really successful career. You may be sure that I wouldn’t use such language carelessly.

One of the best wide receivers in NFL history, Larry Fitzgerald Jr., was the owner of the automobile. He was a First Team All-Pro once, an 11-time Pro Bowler, twice the NFL’s leading receiver in receptions (2005 and 2016), and twice more the league’s leading receiver in receiving touchdowns (2008 and 2009). Additionally, he played his entire career for the Arizona Cardinals.

Apart from all that, he apparently had really good taste in cars.