Former Kansas City Chiefs Running Back Dies of Heart Attack After Attending Chiefs’ Win Over Raiders
Kansas City, MO – October 20, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs community is mourning the loss of Warren McVea, the team’s trailblazing running back who helped deliver the franchise’s first Super Bowl title in 1969. McVea passed away at the age of 79 after reportedly suffering a
According to family members, McVea had been in good spirits throughout the day, celebrating the team’s dominant win before suddenly collapsing at his home later that evening. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead upon arrival at a nearby hospital.
McVea was a historic figure in football history — the first Black player to receive a scholarship at a major Texas university when he joined the Houston Cougars. In three collegiate seasons, he rushed for 1,461 yards and nine touchdowns, before being selected by the
He was traded to Kansas City in 1969 and quickly became part of the Chiefs’ powerful backfield rotation that led the team to victory in
Though he retired with 1,186 career rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, McVea’s impact extended far beyond the field. He remained deeply connected to the Kansas City community and frequently attended Chiefs games, mentoring young players and sharing stories of the franchise’s early days.
Chiefs fans and former teammates have flooded social media with tributes, many highlighting the poetic nature of McVea’s final day — cheering his beloved team to another victory before his passing.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Warren McVea’s family and the entire Chiefs Kingdom during this difficult time.
Chiefs Rookie Gives Up 53-Man Roster Opportunity to Care for Ill Parents
Kansas City, MO – October 17, 2025
In Kansas City, where ambition meets heart, Kevin Knowles was on the brink of a lifelong dream — until life called him somewhere far more important: home.
The 22-year-old defensive back signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent (UDFA) shortly after the 2025 NFL Draft. A product of Florida State University, Knowles was known for his high football IQ, quick instincts, and relentless effort on special teams. Though he didn’t hear his name on draft night, his performance through rookie camp and the preseason made an impression on the coaching staff.
He was waived during final cuts in August but quickly re-signed to the Chiefs’ practice squad, where coaches described him as “first in, last out” — a player whose heart for the game matched the Chiefs’ culture of grit and discipline.
Just days ago, Knowles was informed he’d earned a promotion to the 53-man active roster — a reward for months of hard work and perseverance. But that call from the team came at the same time as another — one that shattered his joy.
Back home in South Florida, both of his parents were struggling with serious illnesses. His father had suffered a relapse in a chronic heart condition, while his mother was recovering from chemotherapy treatments for breast cancer. With no siblings nearby and his mother’s health fragile, Kevin made the painful decision to put football on hold and return home to take care of his family.
In a statement shared through the team, Knowles wrote:
“I’ve dreamed of playing in the NFL since I was a kid, and I’ll forever thank the Kansas City Chiefs for believing in me. But right now, both of my parents — the two people who worked every day so I could chase this dream — are fighting their toughest battles. My dad is struggling with a heart condition, and my mom is recovering from breast cancer treatment. I can’t focus on football knowing they need me home. The NFL is my dream, but my parents are my world. I’ll be back — stronger, and with even more to fight for.”
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid expressed his admiration for Knowles’ choice, calling it “a decision rooted in love, faith, and family — the things that define who we are, not just as players, but as people.”
Teammates like Trent McDuffie have reportedly reached out privately, offering both emotional and financial support. Within the locker room, Knowles’ locker at Arrowhead Stadium remains untouched — a quiet reminder that his story with Kansas City isn’t over.
For now, his fight isn’t on the field. It’s beside a hospital bed, holding the hands of the two people who gave him the strength to chase his dream.
Because for Kevin Knowles, football can wait — but family can’t.
