Kansas City, MO — Forty-two years have passed, but the memory of Joe Delaney—both as a gifted athlete and a selfless hero—remains as powerful as ever. The Kansas City Chiefs paid an emotional tribute today to the former running back who gave his life trying to save three children from drowning on June 29, 1983.
Delaney was just 24 years old when he lost his life at Critter’s Creek in Monroe, Louisiana, after diving into a water hole left behind by construction work. The pond, filled with murky, dangerous water, was not meant for swimming. But when Joe saw three young boys struggling and screaming for help, instinct and courage overtook fear—despite the fact that he himself could not swim.
In an act of unmatched bravery, Delaney jumped in to try and rescue the children. One child survived. Joe and two of the boys tragically did not make it out.
On Saturday, the Chiefs took to social media to honor his heroism with a solemn message:
“42 years ago today, Joe Delaney tragically passed away a hero, attempting to save three children from drowning. We’ll never forget his sacrifice.”
Delaney, a second-round draft pick out of Northwestern State, had just completed a breakout rookie season in 1981, earning Pro Bowl honors and capturing the hearts of fans with his explosive speed and humble nature. But it wasn’t just his talent that made him special—it was the way he lived, always thinking of others before himself.
“Joe was the kind of man who made you proud to be his teammate,” former Chiefs teammates have often said. “He was quiet, respectful, and always led by example. What he did that day wasn’t out of character—it was exactly who he was.”
His legacy continues to inspire generations, not just in Kansas City but across the nation. The NFL has honored Delaney posthumously with awards, and his number 37 remains unofficially retired by the Chiefs. Schools and parks bear his name in his home state of Louisiana, where his story is taught as one of extraordinary heroism.
As fans gather to remember him today, flowers and jerseys have been placed outside Arrowhead Stadium in tribute. It’s clear that though Joe Delaney’s life was cut tragically short, his spirit and sacrifice have never faded.
He wasn’t just a football player—he was a hero. And 42 years later, we still remember.
