Ken Riley
Inducted:
2023
Player Stats
5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
181 lb (82 kg)
Born:
August 6, 1947
Bartow, Florida, U.S.
Died:
June 7, 2020
Bartow, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback
College:
Florida A&M
Ken Riley was one of the most underrated yet consistently brilliant cornerbacks in NFL history. Born in 1947, he played his entire 15-season career with the Cincinnati Bengals after being drafted in 1969. Originally a college quarterback at Florida A&M, Riley successfully transitioned to defense, using his intelligence and instincts to become a ball-hawking cornerback. Over 207 games, he recorded 65 interceptions — the fifth most in NFL history — and returned five of them for touchdowns.
Known for his quiet leadership and sportsmanship, Riley was a key figure in the Bengals’ rise during the 1970s and early 1980s, including their first Super Bowl appearance in 1981. Despite his remarkable production, he was often overlooked for national honors during his career. His lasting excellence and contributions to the game were finally recognized with his posthumous induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023.
Riley's Awards and Honors
- First-team All-Pro (1983)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1975, 1976)
- Cincinnati Bengals Ring of Honor
- Cincinnati Bengals 40th Anniversary Team
- Cincinnati Bengals 50th Anniversary Team
NFL Records
- Ranks 5th all-time in career interceptions (65)
- Never missed more than one game in 15 seasons
- Holds Bengals franchise records for interceptions and interception touchdowns
NFL Teams
Cincinnati Bengals (1969–1983)
NFL Draft:
1969: 6th round, 135th overall pick
Cincinnati Bengals
Number Worn:
13
NFL Stats
Seasons:
15 (1969–1983)
Games Played:
207
Game Started:
202
Interceptions:
65
Interception yards:
596
Fumble recoveries:
18
Sacks:
1
Defensive touchdowns:
5
