Pat Fischer, a former All-Pro cornerback and a standout defensive player in the NFL, died October 8 at age 84. Fischer, who played for the St. Louis Cardinals and Washington during his 17-season career, was renowned for his toughness, resilience, and innovative play. Reports indicate that Fischer had dementia in his later years, but officials have not made the cause of his death public.
Fischer’s NFL journey began in 1961 when the St. Louis Cardinals selected him in the 17th draft round. At the time, few would have predicted that a 17th-round pick—especially one as small as Fischer, listed at 5-foot-9 and 170 pounds—would have such a lasting impact on the game. Known for playing much bigger than his size, Fischer became one of the league’s most physical and aggressive cornerbacks. These traits would help him achieve remarkable success in a league dominated by much larger players.
During his seven seasons with the Cardinals, Fischer quickly made a name for himself as a fierce competitor. His standout season came in 1964 when he earned first-team All-Pro honors and secured a Pro Bowl selection, an achievement he repeated in 1965 and 1969. Fischer’s playing style defined itself through his ability to cover some of the game’s most talented wide receivers and his willingness to engage in physical battles with them, even when outsized. It was particularly evident in his matchups with Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Harold Carmichael, who was 6-foot-7 and towered over Fischer.
Despite the size disparity, Fischer’s tenacity and technique often neutralized Carmichael’s advantage, showing that heart and determination could overcome physical limitations.
Fischer is one of the earliest adopters of the “bump-and-run” technique. This strategy, where a cornerback initiates contact with a receiver at the line of scrimmage to disrupt their route, was a signature of Fischer’s defensive play. Though others often receive recognition for the move, Fischer’s documented role in its development remains clear.
His ability to disrupt opposing offenses at the point of attack was crucial to his success and longevity in the NFL. By his admission, it took him time to master the technique, but once he did, it became a cornerstone of his game.
After his time in St. Louis, Fischer signed with Washington in 1968, starting a successful decade-long stint with the franchise. His free-agent signing was subject to the newly instituted Rozelle Rule, which required compensation for teams losing players. As a result, the Cardinals were awarded a second-round pick in 1969 and a third-round pick in 1970.
During his ten years in Washington, Fischer became a cornerstone of the defense, often forming part of one of the NFL’s most formidable secondaries under head coach George Allen. Alongside teammates like Mike Bass, Ken Houston, and Brig Owens, Fischer helped shape Washington’s defense into one of the toughest in the league.
He amassed 56 career interceptions, ranking among the top defensive backs in both interceptions and return yardage for the franchise.
One of Fischer’s most memorable moments came during a controversial 1975 game against his former Cardinals. Late in the game, with Washington clinging to a lead, Fischer delivered a brutal hit to St. Louis receiver Mel Gray in the end zone, knocking the ball loose.
However, after a lengthy review, officials ruled the play a touchdown, and the Cardinals won in overtime. The play became known as “The Phantom Catch” and marked a turning point in Washington’s season, ending without a playoff berth.
Fischer retired from football after the 1977 season due to a back injury. That same year, the NFL honored him with the George Halas Award, recognizing the player, coach, or staff member who overcomes the most adversity to succeed. Although injury ended his career, Fischer’s legacy remains firmly established as one of the game’s toughest and most durable players.
After his football career, Fischer settled in Ashburn, Virginia, where he pursued various ventures, including real estate and stockbroking. He remained involved in the community and frequently attended Washington team events. Fischer was inducted into Washington’s Ring of Fame and named one of the franchise’s 80 greatest players.
Fischer is survived by his two children, Allison Shannon and Martin Fischer, as well as six grandchildren. His contributions to football, particularly in Washington, have left an indelible mark on the sport, and he remains a beloved figure in the team’s history.