Bengals issue statement on death of Ken Riley

Cincinnati Bengals great Ken Riley died Sunday at the age of 72, Florida A&M announced.

Riley stands as one of the greatest Bengals in franchise history and had a borderline Hall of Fame career, playing 15 seasons with 65 interceptions, ranked fifth on the all-time list.

A sixth-round pick in 1969, Riley converted from quarterback to defensive back under Paul Brown, retired in 1983 and began his coaching career.

“FAMU athletics and the entire Rattler Nation is deeply saddened of the passing of former FAMU football player, head coach, athletics director and NFL great Ken Riley,” FAMU athletic director Kortne Gosha said, per the AP. “We wish his family our deepest condolences.”

The Bengals, led by president Mike Brown issued a statement on Riley’s passing, per ESPN’s Ben Baby:

Bengals president Mike Brown released this statement on Ken Riley's death. pic.twitter.com/kOG0GNzNJV

— Ben Baby (@Ben_Baby) June 7, 2020

We mourn the passing of one of the greatest Bengals ever, Ken Riley (1947-2020). In 15 seasons with the team, Ken accumulated the fifth-most interceptions in NFL history and was selected as an All-Pro three times. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time. pic.twitter.com/e2AXAAi3Kw

— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) June 7, 2020