Archie Manning, the father of Eli and Peyton Manning, has never won a Super Bowl. Stating the reason behind it, he once said, “If everyone with the Saints had done their jobs as ‘Chief’ did when I played, we would have won Super Bowls.” The legendary quarterback of the New Orleans Saints remembered his Chief, Dan Simmons, who recently died at the age of 78.

Simmons was a beloved former equipment manager for the franchise, indeed, who held 41 years of experience with the team. Undoubtedly, that’s some long years of service for sure! Even at his time of retirement, Dan Simmons was the longest-tenured employee in the history of the organization. Not only that! The Chief made sure to become the first person to achieve a four-decade milestone in terms of service. That legend bid goodbye to Kellen Moore’s team, the Raiders community, and the league on Friday, March 28.

Hence, while remembering him and his years of selfless hard work, Kellen Moore’s Saints paid tribute to their Chief. They shared a poster of Dan Simmons on X, along with his time span – “1946–2025.” Besides that, they tweeted, “Saints mourn the loss of Dan Simmons (praying emoji). “Chief” served as the team’s head equipment manager from 1973-2014.”

After the news of the death of Chief came in, the Saints Owner Gayle Benson released an honoring statement for the late veteran. They stated, “Our thoughts are with Elaine and the Simmons family as we have suffered a significant loss with the passing of Dan. He played an integral role in the daily operations of the equipment room and locker room. Dan was a proud New Orleans Saint and touched the lives of thousands of players, coaches and staff members throughout his tenure, making significant contributions to this franchise. He will be greatly missed.” Indeed, Dan Simmons wasn’t just an equipment manager…

He was the heart of the organization for many years. Dan Simmons took over as manager on April 1, 1973, and never looked back—leading the team through an incredible 858 games. Through every win, every loss, and the unforgettable Super Bowl XLIV victory, he stood by the team. His dedication ran deep, earning him recognition across the football world.

In 2022, the Pro Football Hall of Fame honored Simmons with the Award of Excellence. Before that, in 2015, his peers from all 32 NFL teams recognized him with a lifetime achievement award. The Saints inducted their Chief into their Hall of Fame in 2010, celebrating an irreplaceable legacy.

Simmons continued to build his legacy. Twice—after the 1994 and 2005 seasons—his staff earned the title of the league’s best. More than just a title, Simmons was family to the Saints, a legend in the NFL, and a man who gave everything to the game. His impact will never fade from the hearts of his true fans!

Dan Simmons’s passing leaves NFL fans heartbroken on social media

Dan Simmons was a native of St. Louis who served in the United States Navy for four years before joining the league. Even after he retired from the league, he served as an alumni/legends coordinator for the club. In fact, through this role, he contributed to be the Saints’ valuable member for around 10 more years. According to Archie Manning, everyone loved Simmons, indeed. He highlighted, “Dan was the best, just the very best….You never heard anyone say a bad word about him.” That man was amazing! And his fans now just can’t get over him.

For instance, on X, one recalled his legacy by saying, “Sad news. Chief was the best. He had an infectious spirit and a comforting smile. Sending condolences to his family. He impacted many people over the years (praying and red heart emojis).” This statement clearly tells how much he mesmerized his fans, even with his sweet smile. Not only that!

Another fan also called him a teddy bear, commenting, “RIP Chief, such a wonderful man. He was one of the most intimidating figures on Airline Drive but also a huge teddy bear. He will be missed by many!” Indeed, as per another fan, he was “A true core of the organization,” who died at his home in St. Louis. With pain, this fan mustered his courage to write, “Rest In Peace.” Others chimed in, saying, “R.I.P., Chief,” or simply dropping praying emojis for the man who has left for heaven.

The Saints community will now remember Dan Simmons as their legend forever. He is now survived by his wife, Elaine, their 3 children—Amy, Tracy, and Tony, along with four grandchildren. You will be missed, Dan!