Derrick Thomas’ impact, legacy still felt in Kansas City 24 years later
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Twenty-four years ago, on February 8, 2000, legendary Kansas City Chiefs Linebacker Derrick Thomas died. His influence — on and off the field — is still present in Kansas City.
So, as the Chiefs get set to play in super bowl 58 we’re looking back on number 58, his life and philanthropy in Kansas City.
“It’s always a day I remember and it just kind of feels different when you wake up in the morning,” Derrion Thomas, Derrick’s son said.
All these years later the sentiment remains the same. Derrick Thomas was taken from us way too soon following a car crash. The legacy he has left behind, not many could ever duplicate it.
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“It’s humbling to understand who he was as a person and how many lives he was able to touch and what he was able to do in his short 33 years,” Derrion said.
Since he died, the organization he founded alongside former Chiefs Neil Smith, has mentored more than 2,000 kids and served more than 50,000 families.
“Kansas City became home to him, he would be excited about the things going on in Kansas City not only on the football field but off the football field and what we are doing as a city,” Derrion said.
You can’t help but spot the striking irony of this 6-year run. The first Super Bowl the Chiefs won in 50 years was played in his hometown.
This year they will play in Super Bowl 58, almost like a tribute to our favorite number 58. Not to mention the team for much of the year led by our dominant defense, the side of the ball he loved most.
His son said the one thing that must not be forgotten is who he was at his core.
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“He was truly a person who cared about other people and about his community and family,” he said.
If you would like to purchase a Super Bowl 58 for 58 button, you can do so by going to Charlie Hustle Friday from 1-3 p.m. or you can pick one up Sunday at Power & Light.
