Former Oklahoma QB Patrick Fletcher Passes Away at 41

NORMAN, Okla. — Patrick Fletcher, a former quarterback for the Oklahoma Sooners, passed away at the age of 41, as confirmed by JD Runnels, a fellow former player. The news, shared on social media early Tuesday, prompted an outpouring of tributes and condolences from the Oklahoma football community.

Bob Stoops, the head coach during Fletcher’s time with the Sooners, expressed his sorrow in a heartfelt post on X. “Heartbreaking news today, we lost Patrick Fletcher last night. An always happy, helpful, full of love, & Sooner through & through. I loved that guy!! Please pray for Diana and the entire Fletcher family. RIP P Fletch,” Stoops wrote.

Fletcher joined the Sooners in 1996, and made his on-field debut during the 1998 season. Over his three seasons, he appeared in 28 games, completing 23 of 41 passes for 364 yards, and throwing four touchdowns amidst four interceptions. A significant portion of his success occurred during the 1998 season, where three of his touchdowns were recorded.

In addition to his football career, Fletcher authored a book titled “Sixteen Red: Living the Dream,” which chronicles his experiences at Oklahoma from 1996 to 2000. He was part of the 2000 national championship team that triumphed with a victory over Florida State, securing a title in the Orange Bowl.

Runnels reflected on Fletcher’s character, stating, “Man….I was never teammates with Patrick Fletcher, but he always made me feel like I was. He will be missed, the truest Sooner.” Another former teammate noted, “P-Fletch? Yeah, I loved him, too. Listen, you gotta know the story. Patrick Fletcher, we get there, is a backup quarterback, beautiful kid. Great team guy. We loved him as coaches. Everybody loved him. Team loved him.”

Oklahoma football fans and players alike are finding time to remember Fletcher, celebrating both his contributions on the field and the positive impact he had on those around him.