Joe Senser, a former Pro Bowl tight end for the Minnesota Vikings who later became a longtime radio analyst for the team, died May 7 the Vikings announced. He was 69.
A sixth-round draft pick out of West Chester State in 1979, Senser arrived in Minnesota as an undersized prospect with a basketball background. He quickly developed into one of the NFL's most productive receiving tight ends during an era when the position was used primarily as a blocker.
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Senser caught 42 passes for 447 yards and seven touchdowns as a rookie in 1980. One year later, he earned Pro Bowl honors after recording 79 receptions for 1,004 yards and eight touchdowns. The yardage total remains a franchise record for a Vikings tight end.
Senser also played a role in one of the most memorable moments in Vikings history. During the "Miracle at the Met" against Cleveland in 1980, Senser caught the initial pass on a hook-and-lateral play before pitching the ball to running back Ted Brown, who lateraled to Ahmad Rashad for the winning touchdown.
A knee injury suffered after the 1982 season altered the trajectory of his career. Senser appeared in only eight more games before retiring after the 1984 season. He finished with 165 receptions, 1,822 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns in five NFL seasons, all with Minnesota.
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After football, Senser remained closely connected to the Vikings through broadcasting. He worked as a color commentator on the Vikings Radio Network from 1993-94 and again from 2001-06, becoming a familiar voice to listeners across Minnesota.
“After a legendary career on the field, Joe Senser joined the KFAN Vikings Radio Network in 2001 and spent years entertaining and informing Vikings fans,” KFAN 100.3 wrote on X. “He brought energy, knowledge and heart to every broadcast. We're honored to have had him as part of our team and thankful for the impact he made on so many people throughout his life and career. Rest easy, Joe.”
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The Vikings said Senser also became known in the Twin Cities as a businessman and supporter of charitable causes.
“The Vikings family is saddened by the loss of Joe Senser,” Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wilf said in a statement. “Joe was a Pro Bowler on the field, but his impact on the organization and in the community was felt long after his playing days. Joe was a generous soul with countless charitable endeavors. He brought his positive personality to every interaction he had, whether it be with former teammates, Vikings staff or our family when we became stewards of this franchise.
“Joe’s warmth and welcoming spirit will last in the memories of those who knew him.”
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