Former NFL All-Pro cornerback Pat Fischer has passed away at the age of 84. Fischer, a three-time Pro Bowl selection during his 17-year career with the St. Louis Cardinals and Washington Redskins, was confirmed deceased by a spokesperson for the Washington Commanders, who received the news from his family. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Career Highlights
Fischer's NFL career spanned from 1961 to 1977. He earned first-team All-Pro honors in 1964 and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1964, 1965, and 1969. He played his first seven seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals before joining Washington for the final ten years of his career, amassing a total of 57 interceptions over 220 regular-season and playoff games.
Before his NFL days, Fischer showcased his versatility as a safety, tailback, and quarterback at the University of Nebraska, located about two hours from his hometown of St. Edward. Selected in the 17th round of the NFL Draft (232nd overall) by the Cardinals, he later earned a place in Washington's Ring of Fame.
Fischer gained prominence in college football before being drafted by the Cardinals in 1961, where he secured his first All-Pro recognition in 1964. After joining the Redskins in 1968, he achieved his third Pro Bowl appearance in 1969, further solidifying his legacy before retiring in 1977.
Deteriorating health
In recent years, Fischer's health had deteriorated; he was diagnosed with dementia around 2011 and was among a group of players involved in a class-action lawsuit against the NFL concerning concussion-related safety issues. He had been living in an assisted living facility and was reported to have suffered from severe cognitive decline, memory loss, and possibly CTE at the time of his passing.
The Washington Commanders expressed their sorrow on social media, stating, "We mourn the loss of Ring of Fame member and former All-Pro cornerback Pat Fischer. Sending our heartfelt condolences to Fischer’s family and loved ones."
"The Washington Commanders mourn the loss of Pat Fischer. Fischer was one of the greatest defensive backs in franchise history, ranking in the top 10 in both interceptions and interception return yardage. Fischer is a member of the Washington Ring of Fame and was an All-Pro and Pro Bowl caliber player for the franchise during his 10-year career with Washington from 1968-77. Fischer's contributions to the team on the field and in our community will never be forgotten. We send our heartfelt condolences to Pat's daughter, Allison Shannon, his son, Marty Fischer and the rest of Pat's family and friends at this time," Washington Commanders in a statement.
