SAD NEWS: Cleveland Browns announce the death of iconic…….
Cleveland Browns announce the death of iconic mascot
In 2019, SJ succeeded his father, Swagger, as the Browns mascot. Both will be remembered as popular NFL figures.
The Cleveland Browns have announced that their beloved mascot, Swagger Jr, a bullmastiff also known as SJ, died at the age of five.
SJ takes over as Browns mascot from father Swagger
The dog, born at the end of 2018, took over as the Browns’ mascot from his father, Swagger, who had to retire due to illness. Swagger was hired in 2014 and quickly rose to prominence in the NFL, leading Cleveland through the tunnel before each home game.
However, he was diagnosed with cancer in 2019 and died at the age of six in February 2020 from a stroke. Bullmastiffs live for an average of 7 to 10 years.
SJ took over for his father midway through the 2019 NFL season and was equally adored by Browns and opposing fans alike, frequently posing for photos and eager to be petted as he walked around Cleveland Browns Stadium.
We are sad to announce the passing of our beloved mascot, SJ. We are so grateful for his many years of loyal support and cherish all of the wonderful memories he helped create for fans young and old. pic.twitter.com/bQ6c6HiuA7
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) July 2, 2024
SJ’s “loyal support” and “wonderful memories”
But SJ has now sadly suffered the same fate as Swagger, although the Browns haven’t revealed what caused the bullmastiff’s death.
“We are saddened to announce the demise of our beloved mascot, SJ. We are grateful for his many years of unwavering support, and we treasure all of the amazing memories he helped create for fans young and old.”
Last year, the Browns debuted two new puppy mascots, Muni and Stripes, who we can only assume will take over for SJ when the 2024 NFL season begins in September.
