American professional football player Randy Burke passed away at 70, leaving behind a legacy of impact on the NFL and a long career at WKYT.
Born on May 26, 1955, in Miami, Florida, Randy attended Southwest Miami Senior High School, where he played football and ran track.
He went on to play college football at the University of Kentucky from 1973 to 1977.
While at Kentucky, the offense was run-heavy, so Burke’s receiving stats were modest: in 33 games, he made 37 receptions for 428 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Sad news, death of #RandyBurke a great guy. Great story – plays for #Kentucky that rarely passes. Still potential that got him an invite to #SeniorBowl where he set record with 11 #receptions led to 1977 @NFL 1st round pick of #BaltimoreColts played 4 seasons #RIP friend pic.twitter.com/xwv3XrUuCA
— Kenny Rice (@KennyRiceSports) November 18, 2025
Still, he made a big impression at the 1977 Senior Bowl, setting a record (at the time) with 11 catches for 126 yards.’
Burke’s strong showing in the Senior Bowl, along with his speed, attracted NFL scouts.
He was selected in the first round of the 1977 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Colts, 26th overall.
From 1978 through 1981, he played for the Colts. While his receiving numbers were not huge, he made valuable contributions on special teams.
Former NFL WR Randy Burke Dies at 70!
Randy Burke passed away overnight on November 18, 2025, at the age of 70.
His death has been confirmed by multiple media outlets, but no detailed cause of death has been publicly disclosed yet.
WKYT, where Burke spent nearly three decades, expressed deep sorrow over his passing.
Following his passing, WKYT President and General Manager Jaime Kawaja wrote a heartfelt condolence, saying;
“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. 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.”
Colleagues, former teammates, and members of the University of Kentucky community have remembered him fondly, honoring both his football career and his warm personality off the field.
While Randy’s death has brought grief to his family, his passing has also brought a moment of mourning to the entire community.
We express our heartfelt condolences to the Burke family, friends, and all well-wishers.
Rest in Peace, Randy!
