Remembering Pat Fischer: Former Cardinals and Redskins Star

Another Big Red star from yesteryear has passed.

Pat Fischer, the 5′ 9″ cornerback out of the University of Nebraska has passed away at the age of 84.

Fischer was a jack of all trades in college. His senior season, he started at quarterback and defensive back and was a fabulous kick returner. The Omaha native still holds the Cornhusker record with a career average of 18.3 yards per punt return. He was inducted into the Nebraska Hall of Fame in 1974.

In 1961, Fischer was the St. Louis Cardinals 17th round draft selection and was given little chance to make the team. However, he impressed coaches with his desire, toughness, and aggressiveness. He not only made the team, but played 17 seasons in the NFL.

After playing special teams for a couple of seasons, Fischer got his chance to start full-time in 1963 and led the team with 8 interceptions. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 1964 and was named first-team All-Pro after picking off 10 passes and scoring three touchdowns.

Fischer’s 29 Big Red interceptions still rank fifth all-time in team history.

He joined the Washington Redskins in 1968, where he played 10 more seasons.

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