Former Minnesota Vikings safety Joey Browner dies at 64

Minnesota Vikings safety Joey Browner, a six-time Pro Bowl selection who spent most of his NFL career with the team, has died at age 64, the Vikings announced on December 15, 2024.[1][2]

Browner 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 full-time starter in his second season and earned his first Pro Bowl nod in 1985, his third year with the team.[3][4]

Over nine seasons with the Vikings from 1983 to 1991, Browner appeared in 131 games, recording 37 interceptions and 9.5 sacks. He added seven games with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1992 before retiring.[3]

Browner was selected to six Pro Bowls (1987-1992) and earned three first-team All-Pro honors (1988-1990). He was also named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame's All-1980s Team.[3][4]

One of his standout seasons came in 1990, when he started all 16 games and recorded a career-high seven interceptions.[3]

Browner appeared in six playoff games with the Vikings but never reached the Super Bowl.[3]

The Vikings inducted Browner into their Ring of Honor in 2013.[1][2]

"We've lost a great friend and one of the best Vikings teammates," former Vikings tight end Steve Jordan said. "God blessed Joey with phenomenal talent and a big heart to love people and be a beacon of positivity. Truly, he will be missed."[1]