BREAKING: Pittsburgh Steelers Rival’s beloved icon passes away
The Steelers rival’s cherished pet mascot died.
The Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns have one of the NFL’s most intense rivalries. When real life interferes, the rivalry sometimes takes a back seat.
If you’ve ever watched one of their home games, you’ve probably seen a cute, stubby-legged dog lead the Browns onto the field. Swagger Jr (SJ) was the team’s most recent pet mascot since the 2019 season. He succeeded his father, Swagger, who had held the position for five years before him.
SJ, who has tirelessly served the Browns since 2019, has completed his final race. The Browns announced the terrible news that their beloved mascot died at the age of six.
The devastating update was revealed by the Browns in their news announcement, which was posted on the team’s X account. The players also had some really sweet comments for their favorite mascot.
“We are sad to announce the passing of our beloved mascot, SJ,” stated the team’s spokesperson. “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.”
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
With SJ’s passing, the Browns will most likely continue the Swagger tradition as their team mascot. According to Matthew Schmidt of Browns’ Digest, SJ was bred by well-known breeders in Ohio, and one of his kids may succeed him as mascot.
While the Steelers will be relieved that the Browns’ mascot is no longer gnawing on a Terrible Towel, the teams can put their animosity aside for a while. They can ramp up the intensity in the fall, when the Browns and Steelers face twice in the final eight weeks of the season.
