Minnesota Vikings safety Joey Browner, a six-time Pro Bowl selection who played nine seasons with the team, has died. He was 64. The Vikings announced his death on October 20, 2024.[1][2]

Browner, born May 18, 1960, in Los Angeles, was selected by the Vikings in the first round, 19th overall, of the 1983 NFL Draft out of the University of Southern California. He became a starter in his second season and earned his first Pro Bowl nod in 1985.[2][3]

During his Vikings tenure from 1983 to 1991, Browner appeared in 146 games, recording 37 interceptions, eight sacks and 465 combined tackles. In 1990, he had a career-high seven interceptions over 16 games.[2][3]

Browner was named to the Pro Bowl six times (1987-1992) and earned three first-team All-Pro honors (1988-1990). He was also selected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame's All-1980s Team.[1][3]

He appeared in six playoff games with the Vikings but did not reach the Super Bowl. Browner played seven games for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1992 before retiring.[2][3]

The Vikings inducted Browner into their Ring of Honor in 2013. "We've lost a great friend and one of the best Vikings teammates," former Vikings tight end Steve Jordan said on the team's website. "God blessed Joey with phenomenal talent and a big heart."[1]

Sources

1. Minnesota Vikings. "Vikings Mourn the Passing of Joey Browner". October 20, 2024. https://www.vikings.com/news/joey-browner-1960-2024
2. NFL.com. "Former Vikings safety and six-time Pro Bowler Joey Browner dies at 64". October 20, 2024. https://www.nfl.com/news/former-vikings-safety-and-six-time-pro-bowler-joey-browner-dies-at-64
3. Pro-Football-Reference.com. "Joey Browner". Accessed October 21, 2024. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BrowJo20.htm