His league and championship career at senior level with the Armagh county team spanned thirteen seasons from 1987 until 1999.

[3][4] In retirement from playing, Burns has become involved in the administrative affairs of the Gaelic Athletic Association.

His involvement with the GAA at national level began in 2000 when he was appointed as the first players’ representative to Central Council.

[5] In February 2023, he was elected to succeed Larry McCarthy as President of the Gaelic Athletic Association.

[8] In a wide-ranging interview on BBC Northern Ireland's Talkback on 17 April 2024, Burns spoke to William Crawley over many issues the GAA faces.