CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Browns have announced the passing of their mascot, the beloved bullmastiff SJ.
SJ, as in “Swagger Jr.,” served as the Browns’ live mascot since Week 10 of the 2019 season when he took over for his father, Swagger.
Swagger had been team’s live mascot starting in 2014, but retired in Oct. 2019. His handlers later revealed he had been battling cancer for some time. Swagger passed away from a stroke in 2020, which officials said was “unexpected.”
“We are sad to announce the passing of our beloved mascot, SJ,” the team posted on its social media platforms. 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.”
Both SJ and Swagger hailed from FD Farms in Rootstown. SJ earned the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen badge and made pre-game visits to Dawg Pound Drive, just like Swagger did in his career.
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