Remembering Joe Delaney

            This past Sunday, 25 years ago, a hero died. With the 41^st pick in the 1981 NFL draft, the Chiefs selected a running back from Northwestern State in the 2^nd round. They selected Joe Delaney. Delaney was not a candidate for rookie of the year. No 2^nd rounder will be nominated because that’s how things are. But Delaney’s number was called, he put some damage on opponents. In 15 games played and starting 10, Delaney had 234 carries and 22 receptions, Delaney had an impressive total of 1,367 yards from scrimmage and also had 3 touchdowns. Delaney ended up winning AFC rookie of the year as the Chiefs finished with a 9-7 record. Delaney eventually was voted in the pro-bowl in 1982 as he continued to add on to his NFL resume. But that’s not why many consider him a hero.

            On June 29^th 1984 in Monroe, Louisiana, Delaney was with his friends as they heard the cry of 3 boys drowning. Delaney had little to none swimming experience, but that didn’t hassle him as he dove into the pond to make an attempt to save the kids. Delaney saved one young boy, but drowned with the other two. Delaney was only 24 years old. His memorial service was held on July 4^th that same year in his high school’s gymnasium. President Ronald Reagan, who was ran the white house from 1981-89 honored Delaney with the ‘Presidents Citizens Medal’ given to people who have done good deeds. This was not the first time Delaney helped someone in need before. Delaney was also awarded with many heroic achievements from his high school, NCAA and NFL.

            A group of fans in Kansas City created the "37Forever Foundation," partnering with the ‘American Red Cross’ providing swimming lessons for young children. 37 was the number Delaney wore as it is unofficially retired by the Chiefs. Delaney’s name is also placed in the Chiefs ‘ring of honor’ at Arrowhead Stadium and was also added to the Chiefs hall of fame in 2004. Who cares about Delaney’s NFL stats? He was a hero attempting to save three children and despite he was an inexperienced swimmer, he made quite an unselfish act many inexperienced swimmers would be timid to do.

            Delaney was a hero on and off the field, but anytime I hear his name, I’ll remember his act off the field more than his performances on the gridiron. I hope everyone else will think the same as well.

R.I.P Joe Delaney

1958-1983