The Kansas City Chiefs are honoring one of their own after some heroic efforts. The announcement took over social media with thousands of reactions and comments. Below are all the details.
Breaking: Chiefs Honor Former Star Player Who Lost His Life Saving 3 Children
Oct 7, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Kansas City Chiefs helmet against the New Orleans Saints during the second half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Oct 7, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Kansas City Chiefs helmet against the New Orleans Saints during the second half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
More than forty years have passed since Joe Delaney died tragically:
Only two years into his NFL career, the 1981 Pro Bowler selflessly sacrificed his life in an attempt to save three children from drowning in a man-made pond in Louisiana. He was just 24 years old.
This June 29, and all the others before it, the Chiefs made sure to honor their fallen hero with a post to social media.
“42 years ago today, Joe Delaney tragically passed away a hero, attempting to save three children from drowning,” the team said in a statement. “We’ll never forget his sacrifice ❤️”
42 years ago today, Joe Delaney tragically passed away a hero, attempting to save three children from drowning. We’ll never forget his sacrifice ❤️ pic.twitter.com/UdYk3XVJUM
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) June 29, 2025
Oct 12, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Kansas City Chiefs helmet against then Denver Broncos prior to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 12, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Kansas City Chiefs helmet against then Denver Broncos prior to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Fans gathered in the comments to remember the UPI Rookie of the Year and a life and career gone way too soon.
“Forever hero,” Adam Schefter replied.
“An amazing guy, great player, and a huge heart!” Pete Najarian added.
“My Dad always brought up this man when I was growing up,” a user shared. “He’d talk about how great a player he was, and how he knew he was facing death because he couldn’t swim, but chose to go after the children anyway. He’s a true hero. One that fathers can tell their sons to aspire to be.”
“What an inspiration,” another said.
“I was just telling my wife about him a few days ago. Cannot believe it’s been that long,” a fan posted.
“My very first favorite Chiefs player ❤️💛” a fan commented.
“He could have been one of the best. I have no doubt Joe would be in the same conversation as the great running backs of the 80s,” another person admitted. “But most importantly, he was a hero. And his name should be known to everyone who loves this game.”
Jan 17, 2021; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; General view as the Kansas City Chiefs play against the Cleveland Browns during the secondhalf in the AFC Divisional Round playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Jan 17, 2021; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; General view as the Kansas City Chiefs play against the Cleveland Browns during the secondhalf in the AFC Divisional Round playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Delaney’s number resides in the Chiefs Ring of Honor where his heroism will live on forever at Arrowhead Stadium.
May he continue to rest in peace.
Jan 30, 2022; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Kansas City Chiefs helmet against the Cincinnati Bengals before the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 30, 2022; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Kansas City Chiefs helmet against the Cincinnati Bengals before the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
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