MORE RIDICULOUS MASCOTS

Inspired by the Steelers' bold move of not only creating a mascot (Steely McBeam, left), but giving him a stupid name, johnnyjets.blogspot.com has learned that a few other teams are less reluctant to release their less-than-intimidating mascots. To wit:

CHICAGO BEARS: GROWLY THE BEAR


CINCINNATI BENGALS: DISNEY'S TIGGER


NEW YORK JETS: JUMBO THE JET

OK, sadly, this imginary creation of mine for the Jets actually existed for one season. I'm not sure what happened, but quietly, one season, there was a mascot at Jets games (I don't even know what its name was), which sort of resembled this cartoon above. He was gone the next season. Unceremoniously brought in, unceremoniously eliminated. I tried to find a picture, but it seems the Jets have (perhaps rightfully) erased all evidence that this character ever existed.

Comments: dave in brighton said...
The inside story behind Jumbo the Jet's demise: Drafted by the USAF during the chaos of the fall of the Soviet Union, he was shot down over China by a MiG-27. Jumbo the Jet is still listed as missing in action.

THE STEELERS ARE NO LONGER FEARSOME

Meet Steely McBeam, the mascot the Pittsburgh Steelers just introduced to help celebrate their 75th year of football. He just looks so cuddly.

Many are 'jawing' about the fact that he bears a striking resemblance to former Steelers coach Bill Cowher. I wonder how Steelers fans will feel about that when Cowher comes back next year with the New York Giants...or, worse, the division-rival Cleveland Browns. That'll be a sight, Cowher on the sideline for an opponent, with his likeness prancing around trying to rev up the crowd.

All in all, not a mascot that will drive fear into the hearts of opponents. They should have gone with a steagle...or at least a tougher-sounding name.