The Kansas City Chiefs have paid tribute to former team running back Joe Delaney, who pᴀssed away 42 years ago Sunday trying to save three children from drowning near his offseason home in Louisiana. 

Delaney was 24 in June 1983, prepping for his third NFL season with the Chiefs, when he visited Critter’s Creek, a former amusement park in Monroe, Louisiana. 

It was then when he saw three children screaming for help in a water hole left by construction and not intended for swimming. 

Delaney did not know how to swim but jumped in to save the three children anyway. 

He saved one child, who got out of the water without any injuries. Another was transported to a hospital and later pᴀssed away. 

Police later recovered the bodies of Delaney and the third child, with Critter’s Creek being closed to the public ever since that day. The Chiefs’ paid tribute to him on social media on Sunday. 

The Kansas City Chiefs have paid tribute to former team running back Joe Delaney on Sunday

Delaney pᴀssed away in 1983 while trying to save three children from drowning in Louisiana

’42 years ago today, Joe Delaney tragically pᴀssed away a hero, attempting to save three children from drowning. We’ll never forget his sacrifice,’ the Chiefs posted to social media with a heart emoji.

‘Forever hero,’ ESPN’s Adam Schefter replied. 

‘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. But most importantly, he was a hero. And his name should be known to everyone who loves this game,’ one Chiefs fan said. 

Delaney’s only full NFL season was in 1981, where he finished with 1,121 rushing yards and three touchdowns – great stats for a first-year player. 

His 1982 campaign was cut short due to a player strike and an eye injury, only seeing the field for eight games. 

Since Delaney’s pᴀssing, no Chiefs player has worn No 37, as he has been inducted into the Chiefs’ Hall of Honor in 2004. 

That means those visiting Arrowhead Stadium to see Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and others play during their current stellar run are able to see Delaney’s name etched into the venue.