Cleveland Browns announce death of iconic mascot: what happened to SJ Swagger Jr?

The Cleveland Browns have revealed that their iconic mascot Swagger Jr, a bullmastiff better known as SJ, has died at the age of 5.

SJ takes over as Browns mascot from father Swagger

The dog, who was born at the end of 2018, took over mascot duties for the Browns from Swagger, his father, who was forced to retire after falling ill. Swagger had got the gig in 2014 and became an iconic figure in the NFL, leading Cleveland through the tunnel before their home games.

However, he was struck down by cancer in 2019 and died aged 6 in February 2020 after suffering a stroke. In general terms, bullmastiffs usually live somewhere between 7 and 10 years.

SJ took over from his father midway through the 2019 NFL season and was equally adored by fans of Browns and other teams alike, often posing for photos and happy to be patted as he roamed around Cleveland Browns Stadium.

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 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.”

Last year, the Browns introduced two new puppy mascots, Muni and Stripes, who we can only presume will take over the mantle from SJ when the 2024 NFL season starts in September.