Jake Browning has indeed distinguished himself as a phenomenal QB! Playing for the Cincinnati Bengals currently, after he remained undrafted in  2019, he first signed with the Minnesota Vikings. And, he gained prominence with the Bengals as he became a starter in 2023 after Joe Burrow’s injury. Browning has made an incredible journey from a high school star at Folsom High, to a collegiate QB at the University of Washington, and ultimately to the NFL.

Yet, beyond his achievements, his parents, Ed and Meg, have played an incredible role in helping him build a legacy. And, despite the success, they ensure that he stays “grounded.” For whatever he is today, Jake credits his dad through and through, remarking, “He made me the man I am now.”

Who is Ed Browning?

Jake’s father, Ed Browning, has an immense influence on his life. And, his father has also made a name for himself as a top-notch athlete.  Ed played college football from 1987 to 1991, finishing the final season as his school’s leader. And, it was Ed who introduced his son to football. Jake adds, “Growing up, before I even started playing football, he was always there for me.”

Jake’s parents divorced when he was merely eight, and, since then, he has always remained as his strongest support system. Jake recalls, “Sometimes, when you go through that, it brings you even closer, and I think that’s where my dad helps me a lot, too.” It was not easy, but Ed gave his emotional support to navigate it, as he found consonance in spending time with his father and sister. And, to this day, he rarely misses a day without speaking to his father.

Jake remains grateful to his father and his teachings

When Jay Schaake, former Oregon State assistant coach saw Jake on the fields, he was quick to notice similarities between Ed and Jake Browning. He added, “In the back of my mind, I’m going, ‘This looks really familiar,’ And that’s before I knew that was Ed’s son.” Jake and Ed share a really special bond.

Talking about his father’s support, he added, “Growing up, before I even started playing football, he was always there for me, whether it was a school issue, anything that came up, he had a good way to respond to it.” Ed also assisted Jake as he prepared for his first varsity start in high school.

Not only this, he also supported Jake’s decision to graduate early as he joined the University of Washington for spring football. Moreover, he also suggested Jake approach the game with the right attitude. Ed remarked, “If you’re going to work, this is how you’re going to do it. You’ve got to do it the right way. You’ve got to work hard.”

Often coaches and teammates have praised Jake for his humility. And, they credit Ed for the same. Indeed, he has remained a crucial figure in his son’s life.