It’s rare to sack Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. That’s why Baron Browning had to do his dance.
As Mahomes attempted to escape pressure on third-and-long in the fourth quarter of the Broncos’ 24-9 win in Week 8, he ran into his offensive lineman, and Browning came from behind to record his second sack.
The third-year outside linebacker then dashed near the goal line and went crazy. He moved side-to-side before falling to the ground and started pumping like Hingle McCringleberry from the “Key and Peele” skit.
Safety Justin Simmons said Browning has similar traits to edge rusher Von Miller. While Browning has a long way to go to match the 8-time Pro Bowler’s sack numbers, his celebrations are just as creative and unique.
“You can tell he’s having fun while playing,” defensive lineman Matt Henningsen told The Denver Post.
Browning said he doesn’t think or plan out his sack celebrations. Sometimes, he goes on TikTok for ideas, but for the most part, it’s whatever comes to mind.
Throughout NFL history, players have had signature sack celebrations. Former Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman had his iconic “Lights Out” routine. Whenever former Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen recorded a sack, he would mimic roping a calf.
Browning, on the other hand, isn’t tied to any one dance. He likes to mix it up because his sack celebrations reflect his spirited personality. Last season against the Colts, Browning sacked former quarterback Matt Ryan before crawling across the field. When he rocketed off the edge and sacked Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, Browning put his hand over his forehead and started circling his head around.
Browning’s favorite move is flapping his arms uncontrollably while hopping back and forth on one leg. He did it against the Ravens in 2022, and when he sacked Mahomes for the first time in the home win last month.
“I don’t know what they call (that dance),” Browning told The Post. “I just do whatever.”
As a kid growing up in Wisconsin, Henningsen enjoyed watching former linebacker Clay Matthews’ sack dances. But he said Browning is the “best of the best.”
Defensive lineman Elijah Garcia said Browning’s celebrations reflect the upbeat player he sees in the locker room daily.
“Whenever I see it, I know they are going to post it on (Instagram) and get the people going,” Garcia said.
Browning said Miller, now with the Buffalo Bills, is the first player who comes to mind when he thinks about sack celebrations. Just like Browning, Miller has a variety of moves, each showing his energy and charisma. He replicated Cam Newton’s iconic “Superman” celebration after sacking the former Carolina Panthers star in 2012. He has even paid homage to former Houston Oilers wide receiver Billy “White Shoes” Johnson by doing the “Funky Chicken.”
Miller made each dance worthwhile. Browning tries to do the same.
“Once you get a sack, it’s your time to turn up with your teammates and have fun,” he said.
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