Former Washington cornerback Pat Fischer passes away at 84

Many of Fischer’s most memorable years in Washington came under George Allen. The cornerback was a key part of Allen’s veteran-heavy “Over the Hill Gang” that helped lead Washington to some of its best performances in decades. Most notable was the 1972 season that saw the Burgundy & Gold compile an NFC-best 11-3 record and clinch its first trip to the Super Bowl.

In the NFC Championship game, Fischer and fellow cornerback Mike Bass put on a show to shut down the Cowboys’ wide receivers. Though Miami would eventually win the Super Bowl the following game, Fischer and the rest of the Washington defense limited the Dolphins to just 69 net passing yards. For his 1972 season, in which he grabbed four interceptions and a fumble recovery, he was named a Second Team All Pro.

Fischer retired after the 1977 season because of a back injury. The following year, he was given the George Halas Award, an honor bestowed by the Pro Football Writers of America to an NFL player, coach or staff member who overcomes the most adversity to succeed.

Once his playing days were over, Fischer settled with his family in Ashburn, Virginia. He was named as a member of Washington’s 80 Greatest list and to the franchise’s Ring of Fame.