Vikings Mourn the Loss of Ring of Honor Member Joey Browner

The former Vikings safety and nine-time Pro Bowler passed away at age 65.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:00pm

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The Minnesota Vikings are mourning the loss of Ring of Honor member Joey Browner, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 65. Browner, a nine-time Pro Bowler, played for the Vikings from 1983 to 1991 and was known for his ball-hawking skills, recording 37 interceptions and 18 forced fumbles during his career. He was inducted into the Vikings Ring of Honor in 2013.

Why it matters

Browner was one of the greatest defensive backs in Vikings history, earning six consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1985 to 1990. His passing is a significant loss for the Vikings organization and their fan base, as he was a beloved figure who helped define the team's defensive identity during his playing days.

The details

Browner was the first defensive back selected in the first round by the Vikings, who drafted him 19th overall out of USC in 1983. He went on to play nine seasons in Minnesota, helping the team produce the NFL's top-ranked defense in 1988 and 1989. Browner's 37 career interceptions rank fifth in Vikings history, and his 987 total tackles (according to team stats) rank second among safeties in franchise history.

  • Browner passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2026.
  • Browner was inducted into the Vikings Ring of Honor in 2013.

The players

Joey Browner

A former Vikings safety who was a nine-time Pro Bowler and member of the Vikings Ring of Honor. He played for the Vikings from 1983 to 1991 and is known for his ball-hawking skills, recording 37 interceptions and 18 forced fumbles during his career.

Harrison Smith

The current Vikings safety who broke Browner's franchise record for interceptions by a defensive back in 2021. Smith has been named to the Pro Bowl five times and is considered one of the best safeties in the NFL.

Bud Grant

The Hall of Fame head coach of the Vikings who drafted Browner in 1983, praising his speed and ball skills.

Steve Jordan

A former Vikings tight end who was drafted one year before Browner and played with him for nine seasons. Jordan is also a member of the Vikings Ring of Honor.

Scott Studwell

A former Vikings linebacker who said Browner was a player that could have transcended any generation of player and was one of the best at his position.

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What they’re saying

“We've lost a great friend and one of the best Vikings teammates. God blessed Joey with phenomenal talent and a big heart to love people and be a beacon of positivity. Truly, he will be missed.”

— Steve Jordan, Former Vikings Tight End

“Joey was one of those players that could transcend any generation of player. He could've played today. When he played, he was one of the best at his position.”

— Scott Studwell, Former Vikings Linebacker

What’s next

The Vikings organization is expected to hold a memorial service to honor Browner's legacy and contributions to the team.

The takeaway

Browner's passing is a significant loss for the Vikings franchise and their fan base, as he was one of the greatest defensive backs in team history and a beloved figure who helped define the team's defensive identity during his playing days. His induction into the Vikings Ring of Honor in 2013 cemented his legacy as one of the all-time greats to wear the purple and gold.