London Fletcher's journey in professional football is a testament to his skill and perseverance. Born on May 19, 1975, in Cleveland, Ohio, Fletcher attended John Carroll University, a small Division III school. Despite the challenges of coming from a less recognized program, he entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 1998, signing with the St. Louis Rams.
Fletcher's early years with the Rams were marked by rapid development and increasing responsibility. By the 1999 season, he had become a starting linebacker, playing a crucial role in the Rams' defense. That year, Fletcher helped lead the team to a Super Bowl XXXIV victory over the Tennessee Titans, cementing his place in the league. His performance in the Super Bowl, where he recorded several tackles, highlighted his ability to perform under pressure.
In 2002, Fletcher signed with the Buffalo Bills, where he continued to excel as a middle linebacker. Over the next five seasons, he became a defensive leader for the Bills, consistently ranking among the team's top tacklers. Fletcher's tenure in Buffalo was characterized by his durability and reliability, as he started every game during his time with the team. His leadership on and off the field earned him the respect of teammates and coaches alike.
Fletcher's career took another turn in 2007 when he joined the Washington Redskins. His impact was immediate, as he quickly became a cornerstone of the Redskins' defense. Known for his intelligence and instinctive play, Fletcher was often tasked with calling defensive plays and making adjustments on the field. His ability to read the game and anticipate opponents' moves made him a valuable asset to the Redskins.
Throughout his time in Washington, Fletcher was recognized for his consistent performance. He was selected to the Pro Bowl four times (2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012) and was named a second-team All-Pro in 2011 and 2012. Fletcher's streak of consecutive games played and started was particularly impressive, as he demonstrated remarkable endurance and toughness over his career.
Fletcher retired after the 2013 season, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and professionalism. Over his 16-year career, he played in 256 consecutive games, a testament to his durability and work ethic. Fletcher finished his career with over 2,000 tackles, ranking among the top tacklers in NFL history.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Fletcher was known for his leadership and character. He was a respected figure in the locker room and a mentor to younger players. His contributions to the game were recognized when he was named the recipient of the Bart Starr Award in 2012, honoring his character and leadership on and off the field.
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