Former NFL receiver Randy Burke, who was selected by the Baltimore Colts in the first round of the 1977 NFL Draft, has died. He was 70 years old.
WKYT in Lexington, the TV station where Burke previously worked, announced his death earlier this week.
Randy Burke played at Kentucky from 1973-76 before beginning his NFL career. A strong showing at the Senior Bowl helped his draft stock as he set a record at the time with 11 catches for 126 yards in the game.
The Miami native was injured during his rookie season with the Baltimore Colts in 1977 before returning to play with the Colts from 1978-81.
He caught 30 passes for 489 yards and 3 touchdowns during his NFL career, while also contributing on special teams. All three of his touchdown receptions came in the 1980 season.
After retiring from football, Burke started working for WKYT in Lexington in 1988. He remained with the station until 2017 when he retired as a senior marketing consultant.
“For nearly three decades, I had the privilege of working alongside and knowing Randy Burke. He was a dear friend to me and never met a stranger,” WKYT President and General Manager Jaime Kawaja said. “Randy left a lasting mark on all of us at WKYT.
“We are heartbroken by his passing, and we extend our deepest love and condolences to his family. His legacy will forever be part of who we are.”
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