Former Minnesota Vikings tight end and radio broadcaster Joe Senser has died at the age of 69, the team announced on Thursday. His cause of death was not disclosed.
The Vikings are mourning the passing of former tight end Joe Senser, who passed away Thursday at the age of 69.
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Senser, a sixth-round pick by Minnesota in 1979, is the only tight end in franchise history with more than 1,000 yards in a season.
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— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) May 7, 2026
“The Vikings family is saddened by the loss of Joe Senser. 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,” owners Mark and Zygi Wilf said in a statement. “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 was drafted by the Vikings in the sixth round of the 1979 draft and immediately made an impact. He led the team in touchdowns in his rookie season, but his second season was eye-catching.
In 1981, he made the Pro Bowl while becoming the first and only Vikings tight end ever to surpass 1,000 receiving yards in a single season.
A severe knee injury near the end of that year virtually ended his football career.
He went on to become a color commentator on the team’s radio broadcast and would later own multiple sports bars.
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
