Mathematical models in the form of differential equations with a time lag have been widely used in economics, biology, engineering and medicine to model dynamical interactions. In this paper, a heuristic estimation algorithm of delay values is offered in discrete deterministic systems by minimizing the average quadratic deviation for parameter identification. A well-known “predator–prey” model falls within the solution set we offer and is widely used in economics. Obviously, real data requires the analysis of random measurement innovations be taken into account; however, this aspect is not considered for the sake of convenience.