The Cleveland Browns, as a professional American football team based in Cleveland, Ohio, have a mascot named Swagger. Swagger, a bullmastiff, made his debut as the Browns' mascot in 2014. Known for his imposing size and confident demeanor, Swagger quickly became a fan favorite. Swagger's name reflects the team's resilience and determination, characteristics that have become synonymous with the Cleveland Browns. His presence on the field during home games serves as a symbol of strength and power, inspiring both players and fans. One of Swagger's most iconic moments occurred during the Browns' 2018 season opener.
Browns’ AKC bull mastiff mascot Swagger Jr. ‘shares’ his favorite ‘snacks’: 5 for Friday
Swagger Jr., a.k.a. "SJ" of your NFL Playoff-bound Cleveland Browns looks hungry. Will he enjoy a 1964-sized meal in 2024? We conduct a telepathic interview with the bull mastiff about his favorite snacks. David Petkiewicz, Cleveland.com
Subscribers can gift articles to anyone- Peter Chakerian, cleveland.com
CLEVELAND, Ohio— Swagger Jr., the beloved mascot known affectionately to Cleveland Browns fans as “SJ,” had some pretty big paws to fill after his father Swagger’s time in the driver’s seat.
But the 5-year-old AKC pure bred bull mastiff hailing from Rootstown has done so in fine canine fashion, winning over a generation of Northeast Ohio football fans with his, well, swagger — not even to mention his impossibly good looks.
Here at “5 for Friday HQ,” we love to talk to The Land’s movers and shakers every week about their favorite dining options. This led us to wonder: What kind of gameday grub would “SJ” enjoy at a tailgate if he decided to flee Cleveland Browns Stadium in the direction of tailgaters at the Muni Lot?
What might he enjoy at a party for The Big Game, if our four-legged friend-to-all was given opportunity?
We already know the 125-pounder has a penchant for “Liver” and “Bengal Tail.” But does he quibble about kibble and, if so, what kinda grub does our pup prefer?
One of Swagger's most iconic moments occurred during the Browns' 2018 season opener. As the team took the field for the first time in their new uniforms, Swagger, leading the way, confidently strutted across the turf. This moment captured the essence of the team's renewed spirit and instilled a sense of pride in fans.
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Since this town has absolutely gone to the Dawgs in anticipation of Saturday’s NFL Wildcard Playoff game against the Houston Texans, we decided to talk to “SJ” about it.
Problem is, between language barriers and a jam-packed media calendar, rolling over for a proper interview sit wasn’t in the cards. When we’ve hung out with him in the past, he wasn’t much of a talker anyway.
But we weren’t ready to “play dead” on the idea, so we “interviewed” this very good boy about his five favorite gameday snacks — doing so through a combination of creative telepathy and artistic license.
For instance, when we asked him, “What about Pittsburgh?” he was quite matter-of-fact:
“They know that I love me some Gobblerito! And wiping my jowls with a Terrible Towel is a post-meal necessity. Just tell them to leave the Iron City Beer at home! Let’s gooooooo!”
Needless to say, “SJ” gave us a lot to chew on, in “his own” words. Here we go, Brownies:
Texan Backside Brisket Sliders at NRG Stadium, Houston: This young, rare brisket is as spicy as beef gets, but it’s all bite and no bark. Most pit bosses season their work impeccably well, then leave it on the smoker for a dawg day afternoon — which naturally produces a rich-and-hearty bark. Texans’ fans enjoy it with several draft (pick) beers, some of which they have Cleveland to thank for! If you can get this rare brisket to hold still long enough, it’s quite tasty. I wouldn’t “steer” you wrong. 1 NRG Pkwy., Houston, TX. houstontexans.com.
Roast Bison on Weck and Bison Burgers at Highmark Stadium, Orchard Park: Buffalo wings may have originated at the famed Anchor Bar, but Cleveland’s are no joke. So, if I’m headed to Erie County, you can bet your dawg bone necklace imma get me a bite of bison. We’d rather snack on that — as a double-stack burger or sliced and piled high on weck with a side of sponge candy, which I give to my handlers—than just about anything else in Buffalo! It’s better than any wing! Make it a meal with quadrice-baked Kelly potatoes and glass of Juice. 1 Bills Dr., Orchard Park, NY. buffalobills.com.
Blackened Dolphin Tacos at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland: Before you complain about my snark or outward cruelty of eating cute, seafaring creatures, remember: 1) I’m a dog, as written by a short, ethnic amateur comic, and we’ll both eat anything off the floor; and 2) “Lighten up, Francis…” it’s Mahi Mahi! I can’t eat pico de gallo (onions/garlic are bad for dogs!) but the slaw and corn tortillas are fine. Bonus: if I get fish tacos in the postseason, I’ll enjoy them at HOME!! How awesome is that. But seriously Miami, after all these years, why the teal? Even fried Seahawk comes in Key Lime-colored wrap? 100 Alfred Lerner Way, Cleveland. clevelandbrowns.com.
Chicken Spiedini with Amogio Sauce at GEHA Stadium at Arrowhead Field: Wondering why I wouldn’t go for barbecue in the heart of BBQ country? This is a fast-moving team, so going for a lighter chicken dish seems like a good-dog move. Plus, breaking news, I have a thing for Taylor. Shhh, don’t tell local (anti-)hero Travis Kelce. I knew he was trouble when he walked in. Spiedini is usually made from spring lamb, but Tay-Tay is my spring lamb and Spiedini hit peak popularity as a chicken dish in (wait for it) “1989.” Juliet, save me! Look what you made me do!! 1 Arrowhead Dr., Kansas City, MO. www.chiefs.com.
The characters, comments and events in this column - even those based on real people and canines - are entirely fictional. Any similarity to actual celebrities is purely coincidental and their voices have been approximated poorly for entertainment purposes. Also, “Here we go Brownies! WOOF-WOOF!”
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Beloved Browns mascot, Swagger, passes away at 6
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Swagger, the 145-pound bull mastiff that ran out of the tunnel before the Browns for every game at FirstEnergy Stadium from 2014 until last October, passed away after a battle with cancer and a stroke. He was 6 years old.
Justin McLaughlin, the son of Swagger’s owners, Fred and Debby McLaughlin, confirmed the news with a Facebook post.
“Today was not expected.. 😥 Swagger unfortunately has passed away completely unexpected this afternoon,” the post read. “Alot of people did not know Swagger had been dealing with cancer for the past year. Today he had a stroke and it took his life.. 😥 We will always remember him as the most loving dog we have ever encountered. His love was felt by thousands of people literally all over the world. 🙌🏼❤️"
The Browns announced Swagger’s retirement in October, but didn’t disclose the dog’s health issues at the time. Swagger made his final run with the Browns on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019 before Cleveland’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
Swagger’s son, Swagger Jr., took over for his father starting on Nov. 10, 2019 prior to Cleveland’s win over the Buffalo Bills.
The McLaughlin family is asking for prayers at this time.
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Beyond his game day appearances, Swagger is also involved in various community initiatives. He makes appearances at local schools, hospitals, and events, spreading joy and promoting the values of teamwork and perseverance. The Brown's choice of a bullmastiff as their mascot is no accident. The breed is known for its loyalty, determination, and protective nature. These qualities align perfectly with the team's persona and resonate with fans who see Swagger as a representation of their unwavering support for the team. In conclusion, Swagger, the Cleveland Browns' mascot, embodies the team's resilience, strength, and determination. His impressive presence and confident swagger on the field during home games inspire players and fans alike. Through community engagements and appearances, he further reinforces the team's commitment to their fans and the greater Cleveland community..
Reviews for "Debunking the Myths About Cleveland Browns Mascots' Swagger"
1. Mike - 2 stars
I have to say, I was extremely disappointed with the Cleveland Browns' mascots swagger. It seemed forced and over the top, rather than genuine and entertaining. The mascots didn't have a cohesive theme and their dance moves were lackluster. Overall, it felt like a desperate attempt to be relevant and gain attention, but it missed the mark completely. I would have preferred a more subtle and authentic display of team spirit.
2. Sarah - 1 star
The Cleveland Browns' mascots swagger was a complete waste of time. It was cringe-worthy and embarrassing to watch. The mascots looked awkward and out of sync, and their attempts at dancing were just painful. The whole performance felt forced and unoriginal. I expected better from a professional sports team. Save yourself the disappointment and don't bother watching it.
3. Jason - 2 stars
I understand that mascots are meant to bring energy and excitement, but the Cleveland Browns' mascots swagger felt like a desperate attempt to compensate for a lackluster team performance. The choreography lacked creativity and the mascots' energy seemed forced. It was clear that they were trying too hard to be funny and engaging, but it just fell flat. Overall, I found the whole thing to be uninspiring and unimpressive.
4. Emily - 1 star
I couldn't believe how cringeworthy the Cleveland Browns' mascots swagger was. It was so over-the-top and forced. The mascots seemed more interested in drawing attention to themselves than actually supporting the team. The dance moves were awkward and the whole performance felt like a bad attempt at comedy. I would have preferred a more subtle and genuine display of team spirit, rather than this embarrassing spectacle. I was truly disappointed.