Burton was a football standout at Arizona State University from 1955-58. He led the nation in rushing with 1,151 yards and in touchdowns with 16 in 1957. He had 42 touchdowns in his career. At Northern High he starred in football and track. He ran the 120-yard hurdles in 19.1 seconds, a state record. Burton later played for the New York Titans in the American Football League.
