Warren McVea Dies at 79, Historic RB Won Super Bowl with Chiefs in 1970

Former Kansas City Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals running back Warren McVea died at the age of 79.

McVea's daughter, Tracey Ellis, told the Associated Press he died Sunday in Los Angeles following a long illness.

The Bengals picked McVea in the fourth round of the 1968 NFL draft. Kansas City acquired him in a trade the following year. In 56 career appearances, he ran for 1,186 yards and 11 touchdowns.

The Texas native had his best season in 1969. In addition to finishing third on the Chiefs in rushing yards (500) and scoring a team-high seven rushing touchdowns, he helped them take down the Minnesota Vikings 23-7 in Super Bowl IV.

McVea also carries the distinction of being the first Black athlete to receive a football scholarship from a major Texas school. He had 2,302 yards from scrimmage and 17 touchdowns at Houston from 1965-67.

In a statement shared by the school, the McVea family said Warren "was more than a football icon."

"He was a pioneer who changed the face of American sports," they said. "He lived with resilience, grace and purpose.

"His legacy will continue to inspire not only athletes but anyone who has ever been told their dreams were impossible. We are honored to carry forward his name and his spirit."

Houston said it will honor McVea with a commemorative helmet sticker for Saturday's game against Arizona State.