Joe Delaney

Joe Delaney

Joe Alton Delaney (/dɨˈleɪni/; October 30, 1958 – June 29, 1983) was an American football running back who played two seasons in the National Football League (NFL). In his two seasons with the Chiefs, Delaney set four franchise records that would stand for over 20 years.

He was a two-time All-American athlete for the Northwestern State Demons football team, as well as a track and field star. Delaney played two seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, and was chosen as the AFC Rookie of the Year in 1981 by United Press International.

Delaney died on June 29, 1983 while attempting to rescue three children from drowning in a lake. He was posthumously awarded the Presidential Citizen's Medal from President Ronald Reagan. While not officially retired, his jersey number while playing for the Chiefs, #37, has not been worn since his death.

Read more about Joe Delaney:  Early Life, Professional Career, Death and Legacy

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