While most of the country reflects on yesterday’s Super Bowl, the Chiefs Kingdom turns their attention today towards a man who carries a gridiron legacy of his own: Derrick Vincent Thomas.

Today marks the 10-year anniversary of Thomas’ tragic passing at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida.

Thomas was a stalwart member of the Kansas City Chiefs on and off the field for the final 11 years of his life. Thomas was the fourth overall selection in the ‘89 NFL Draft out of the University of Alabama. A nine-time Pro Bowl selection, Thomas registered a franchise-record 126.5 career sacks. The Miami, Florida native also holds Chiefs records for career safeties (3), forced fumbles (45) and fumble recoveries (19). Only two players in NFL history own more safeties or fumble return TDs (4) than Thomas. He ranks sixth in team history with 728 career tackles (558 solo) and also contributed 34 passes defense, 444 QB pressures and one INT. In recognition of his stellar NFL career, Thomas was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009.

Still, as vast as Thomas’ legacy was on the field, he also left an indelible mark in the Kansas City Community. Since he formed the Third and Long Foundation in 1990, more than 60 Chiefs players have created individual player foundation and/or charitable programming. Through his foundation, he attacked illiteracy with the same ferocity that he sacked opposing quarterbacks. Among other community activities, he also spearheaded the Chiefs Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive and would personally deliver these holiday baskets to the needy. Former President George H.W. Bush named Thomas as the “832nd point of light” for all his charitable endeavors. Thomas was also recognized as the 1993 NFL Man of the Year and garnered the Byron “Whizzer” White Humanitarian Award in 1995.

For more on Derrick Thomas please visit www.rememberdt.com.