Former Chiefs Lineman Jordan Devey Dies by Suicide at 38, Wife Says

The Kansas City Chiefs lost a member of their extended family this week. The team released a statement mourning the death of former offensive lineman Jordan Devey, who died at age 38.

Devey’s wife, Linsey, confirmed the news in a heartbreaking social media post. She said he died by suicide. The post came just days before what would have been their 15th wedding anniversary.

“Today would have been our 15th year anniversary,” Linsey wrote. “We have filled the walls of our homes and hearts with countless memories, joys, struggles, and triumphs. We brought 4 beautiful children into this world that have your eyes, freckles, and compassion. You were our hero and our hearts ache in your absence. We love you.”

The Chiefs’ statement was short but direct: “We’re deeply saddened by the passing of former offensive lineman Jordan Devey. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

From Undrafted to a Super Bowl Ring

Devey went undrafted out of Memphis in 2013. That didn’t stop him from carving out an eight-year NFL career across five different teams. He started with the Baltimore Ravens, then won a Super Bowl ring with the New England Patriots in his second season. He also spent time with the San Francisco 49ers before landing in Kansas City, where he played from 2016 to 2018 alongside stars like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.

He finished his career with stints on the Raiders and Bills before retiring in 2021. In total, he played 44 regular-season games and started 21 of them. Not bad for a guy nobody drafted.

Life After Football

Devey settled in Kansas City after his playing days ended, then moved to Eagle, Idaho. That’s where he became a fixture in the local youth football community. He coached young players and served as an offensive line coach at Eagle High School. He also tried his hand at business, opening a couple of cookie shops in the Kansas City area with his wife.

The youth football program he coached honored him with a tribute that showed how much he meant to the kids. “There are people who leave a legacy far greater than wins and losses. Jordan Devey was one of those people,” the Eagle Stallions U11 team wrote. “He believed in kids, invested his time, shared his knowledge, and helped build confidence, character, and a love for the game in countless young athletes.”

Devey is survived by his wife and their four children. If you or someone you know is struggling, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.