He attended Southwest Miami Senior High School in Olympia Heights, Florida where he played football and ran track.
[2][4][5] Burke's Senior Bowl performance, combined with a fast showing in the 40-yard dash, impressed NFL scouts.
Burke missed the entire 1977 season after suffering a separated shoulder during the first week of training camp.
His first career touchdown reception came on a 19-yard pass from quarterback Bert Jones during a week four victory against the New York Jets.
[9] Burke was a member of the Los Angeles Raiders during their 1983 training camp, but was released before the start of the season.
[10] Burke played in one game for the Washington Federals of the United States Football League during the 1984 season, recording one reception for seven yards.