Vikings Ring of Honor linebacker Scott Studwell, who had joined the Vikings as a ninth-round pick in 1977, described Senser as a "late-round steal" who made positive impacts in multiple ways.
"Unfortunately, his career was cut short due to a knee injury, or he would have taken his place as a true Legend and would have had a hugely productive career with the Vikings," Studwell said. "He still impacted Vikings fans on and off the field and made his mark in the Twin Cities in a variety of ways and was such a caring and supportive soul who always had a smile on his face and warmth in his heart. He had more than his fair share of physical pain and setbacks, but he always had such a positive attitude and outlook on life that it always 'picked you up' knowing that he always had your back. Great man, player and person with a warm heart and huge smile."
Punter Greg "Touch" Coleman recalled a rough start with Senser that grew into a lifelong friendship.
Coleman remembered meeting Senser at Vikings Training Camp in 1979, recalling Senser's "chiseled" frame and flowing curly hair.
"I remember running the scout team defense during a walk-through drill, holding a dummy bag, and he ripped and knocked me down," Coleman shared. "Embarrassed by the play and that he was a rookie, I jumped up and shouted, 'Rookie if you ever hit me again during walk-throughs, I am gonna kick your ass.' "
"He looked at me and said, 'Touch, you don't understand. I gotta do everything I can to make this team.' Immediately there was a bond because I totally understood what he was going through, having been a rookie myself only a few years back and having had to prove myself day-in and day out, I got it," Coleman said. "From that day on, I made it a point to watch and encourage Joe Senser as long as he was in a Purple uniform."
The 1981 campaign for the player in the No. 81 jersey, along with his endearing personality, launched him into immense popularity in Minnesota.