Kearns was born in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil and played soccer as a youth. His family moved back to Canada so Dan and his brother Steve could attend Wexford High school. They first played Canadian football in Grade 11.[2]
College career[]
Kearns played CIS football for the Simon Fraser Clan.[2]
Professional career[]
Edmonton Eskimos[]
Kearns was selected by the Edmonton Eskimos with the 18th pick in the 1980 CFL Draft. He played for the Eskimos from 1980 to 1988, winning the Grey Cup four times.[3]
Winnipeg Blue Bombers[]
Kearns played in four games for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 1989.[3]
