The Minnesota Vikings are mourning the passing of Joe Senser, a former tight end and team broadcaster. He was 69.
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"The Vikings family is saddened by the loss of Joe Senser," said team owners Mark and Zygi Wilf. "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."
Senser, a former player for West Chester, entered the NFL as a sixth-round pick in the 1979 NFL Draft. He kicked off his NFL career with the Vikings, and he delivered as a rookie in 1980. He only posted 447 yards, but he scored seven touchdowns.
Senser then surpassed this production in 1981. He posted 1,000 receiving yards while catching passes from Tommy Kramer, and he earned his lone trip to the Pro Bowl. He remains the only Vikings tight end to have more than 1,000 yards in a season.
He also closed out that 1981 season with a severe knee injury sustained in a game against the rival Packers.
The West Chester alum spent three more seasons with the Vikings. He only played in 17 games, partially due to injuries and partially due to the 1982 work stoppage. He scored one more touchdown.
Following the end of his playing career, Senser continued to spend time with the team that drafted him. He worked as a color commentator in 1993-1994 and then again from 2001-2006.
He helped longtime play-by-play man Paul Allen bring Minnesota games to countless listeners during an era featuring quarterback Daunte Culpepper, wide receiver Randy Moss, wide receiver Nate Burleson, running back Michael Bennett, and wide receiver Cris Carter.
