Prayers are pouring in on social media after a former Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl hero has died at 79 years old.

The Kansas City Chiefs, who have won three Super Bowls during the Andy Reid era, won Super Bowl IV against the Minnesota Vikings in 1970. Warren McVea, a former Kansas City Chiefs running back, played for the franchise from 1969 until 1973. He previously played for the Bengals and later played for the Detroit Wheels and Houston Texans.

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McVea was known as “The Flea” during his time in Kansas City, due to his small stature and speedy ability.

The Associated Press confirmed his passing this week.

“Warren McVea, the speedy running back who became the first Black player to receive a football scholarship to a major Texas school and later helped the Kansas City Chiefs win their first Super Bowl title, died Sunday after a long illness. He was 79,” they wrote.

“McVea’s daughter, Tracey Ellis, said he died at home in Los Angeles surrounded by family members.

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“From San Antonio, McVea starred at the University of Houston before joining the Cincinnati Bengals in 1968 in the American Football League.”

NFL fans paying tribute

“Warren McVea was the first black football player at UH and the first black football player to receive a scholarship from any major university in the State of Texas. From Brackenridge High School in San Antonio. Incredible life story. May he rest in peace,” one fan wrote.

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“Legend,” one fan added.

“Rest in Peace, Sir,” one fan added.

“Every one of these takes more of my youth away. I wanted one of his football cards so badly! The mid 60’s to mid 70’s players are my gold standard,” one fan added.

“Better player than I remembered. Len Dawson loved throwing him the outlet pass,” one fan added.

“RIP Warren, it’s sad to see so many heroes of my youth pass away,” one fan added.

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May he rest in peace.

This story was originally reported by The Spun on Oct 26, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

RIP Warren McVea ️#Chiefs 1969 Super Bowl IV Champion

Member of the inaugural 1968 #Bengals team

University of #Houston star — the first Black player to receive a football scholarship to a major Texas school

Versatile scat back, flanker, and return man#ChiefsKingdom pic.twitter.com/3WaV0VSg0z

— Kevin Gallagher (@KevG163) October 20, 2025