The Cleveland Browns recently announced a new face would be added to their team. No, not to the roster, not to the coaching or management staff, and not to the media team — to the field. Brownie the Elf, the team’s original logo from decades past, is making his triumphant return to the franchise. Per an announcement released by the team, Brownie will be used as the team’s midfield logo going forward.
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Who is Brownie the Elf?
Brownie the Elf was used by the team during its inaugural season in 1946 and saw rises and dips in popularity over the ensuing years. Brownie has seen multiple iterations since its inception, but the version used by the team for its midfield logo is officially dubbed “running Brownie” and features the elf in a rushing position with a football tucked and a stiff arm stretched out.
During the 1959-1969 seasons, Brownie was used as the team’s official logo, though that version saw the elf with a much cheerier demeanor standing straight up and holding a football in one hand. His usage dipped over the next bunch of years, but he began appearing more once the franchise made its return to Cleveland in 1999.
The decision to use Brownie as the team’s midfield logo was made by Browns fans through a poll distributed by the team. “We really wanted to engage our fans in the process, and they are — as I’ve said multiple times — undefeated,” said JW Johnson, Browns Executive Vice President and Partner. “They’re the best in the league, best in the NFL, and, candidly, some of the best in sports.”
Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett was asked about the logo in a recent press conference, and his response, especially after a reporter informed him that the team won seven championships with Brownie as the logo, is one to jot down. “Seven championships with the elf?” he said. “If we win an eighth championship with that elf, I might come here with a little elf outfit on.”
Someone remember to hold Garrett to that promise if Cleveland brings home a Lombardi Trophy any time soon.