The Washington Redskins newest coach is an area high school football legend.
Keith Burns has been tapped to replace Danny Smith as the Redskins’ special teams coordinator. Smith, who coached with the Redskins for nine seasons, recently left to join the Pittsburgh Steelers in the same capacity.
The 40-year-old Burns has strong ties to the D.C. area. He was a star three-sport athlete at T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria. As a sophomore, he helped lead the Titans football team to a state championship in 1987 where he scored the team’s only touchdown in the win.
After capturing his Lombardi Trophy with the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXXII, then Alexandria Mayor Kerry Donly awarded him with the Key to the City.
In 13 seasons in the league, Burns earned two Super Bowl rings and a reputation as a stud on special teams under then Broncos coach Mike Shanahan. He played in 197 games, notching 231 tackles on special teams during that stretch.
As a linebacker, he recorded 77 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 1 interception and a forced fumble.
“Keith was an excellent special teams player and a strong influence in the locker room for two Super Bowl championship teams,” Shanahan said. “I know our players will enjoy playing for him.”
Burns transitioned into coaching immediately after retiring as a player. Since 2007 he has served as an assistant on Denver’s special teams coaching staff.
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