Cleveland Browns tight end Brenden Bates recently went viral for attempting the famous “Happy Gilmore” golf swing, only to end up in a hilarious tumble. Inspired by the iconic move from the 1996 Adam Sandler movie, Bates’ effort didn’t go as planned, but it sure entertained fans. This lighthearted moment has sparked laughter across social media and reminded everyone that even NFL athletes can have fun off the field. Let’s dive into what happened, why it’s so funny, and what it means for Bates and the Browns.
What Happened During Brenden Bates’ Golf Swing Attempt?
The Happy Gilmore Swing Explained
The “Happy Gilmore” swing is a famous scene from the 1996 comedy movie Happy Gilmore, where Adam Sandler’s character, a hockey player turned golfer, uses a unique running start to hit the golf ball with extra power. It’s a bold and exaggerated move that looks simple but is tough to pull off in real life.
Brenden Bates’ Viral Moment
Brenden Bates, a 6-foot-5, 255-pound tight end for the Cleveland Browns, decided to try this iconic swing during a recent golf outing. As shown in a video shared by the NFL and Tight End University on social media, Bates started with confidence, running toward the ball with his driver in hand. However, things went wrong fast:
- Missed the Ball: Bates swung with full force but completely missed the golf ball.
- Lost Balance: The momentum from his run and swing sent him spinning.
- Epic Fall: He ended up doing a full twist in the air, landing on his back in the tee box.
- Club Flew Away: The torque was so strong that his golf club slipped from his hands.
The video ends with Bates lying on the grass, clearly aware of his comical mistake, as he stays down for a few seconds. This blunder has been called a “viral disaster” and is making rounds online, especially with Happy Gilmore 2 set to hit theaters in July 2025.
Why Did Brenden Bates Try the Happy Gilmore Swing?
A Fun Challenge for Athletes
The Happy Gilmore swing is a popular challenge for golfers and non-golfers alike. Its exaggerated style makes it tempting for anyone who’s ever picked up a club. Bates, like many, probably wanted to test his skills and have some fun. As an NFL athlete, his size and strength likely gave him confidence to try the powerful move, but the results show it’s not as easy as it looks.
Timing with Happy Gilmore 2
With Happy Gilmore 2 set to release soon, the swing has regained attention. Celebrities and athletes, including NFL stars like Travis Kelce, have been linked to the movie’s hype. Bates’ attempt aligns with this trend, as fans and players celebrate the classic film. His fail, while embarrassing, adds to the fun and nostalgia surrounding the movie.
Who Is Brenden Bates?
Background and Career
Brenden Bates is a 25-year-old tight end for the Cleveland Browns, born on October 17, 1999, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Here’s a quick look at his journey:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| College | Played football at the University of Kentucky, known for his blocking skills |
| NFL Journey | Signed with Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent in 2024 |
| Teams | Chicago Bears, New York Jets, now with Cleveland Browns |
| Stats | Played 5 games with the Jets, mainly on special teams, no catches yet |
| Physical Stats | 6’5”, 255 pounds, known for strong blocking abilities |
Bates went undrafted in 2024 but showed promise in the Bears’ preseason, catching six passes for 100 yards. After being waived by the Bears, he joined the New York Jets, where he played five games before moving to the Browns’ active roster. He’s still working to secure a spot on the 53-man roster and hopes to make an impact with Cleveland’s two-tight-end offensive schemes.
Why This Moment Matters
While Bates’ golf swing fail is funny, it also humanizes him. NFL players are often seen as superhuman, but this moment shows they can be just as clumsy as anyone else. It’s a reminder that athletes enjoy lighthearted fun, even if it doesn’t always go as planned.
Why Did This Go Viral?
Social Media Buzz
The video of Bates’ swing was shared by major accounts like the NFL, Tight End University, and OutKick, leading to thousands of views and reactions. Fans on X posted comments like, “Browns TE Brenden Bates tried the Happy Gilmore swing and failed miserably 😭😭,” highlighting the humor. The clip’s timing, just before Happy Gilmore 2, added to its appeal.
Relatable and Funny
Almost everyone who’s tried golf has had a bad swing or two. Bates’ over-the-top attempt and dramatic fall make it relatable and laugh-out-loud funny. It’s a moment that connects with fans who’ve also tried something ambitious and failed spectacularly.
What Does This Mean for Brenden Bates and the Browns?
No Injury, Just Laughs
Thankfully, Bates didn’t seem to get hurt during his fall, which is good news for the Browns. The team’s front office might not love seeing their player take such a risk in the offseason, but the lighthearted nature of the moment likely outweighs any concerns.
Boosting His Profile
This viral moment could help Bates gain attention as he fights for a roster spot. While he’s still a developing player, his personality and willingness to have fun might endear him to fans and coaches. For the Browns, who are preparing for the 2025 season, this is a chance to show their players’ fun side, especially after a busy offseason with moves like drafting Shedeur Sanders.
Tips for Trying the Happy Gilmore Swing Safely
If you’re inspired to try the Happy Gilmore swing yourself, here are some tips to avoid a Bates-like tumble:
- Practice First: Try the running motion without a club to get comfortable.
- Focus on Balance: Keep your body centered to avoid spinning out of control.
- Use a Lighter Club: A driver’s weight can make the swing harder to control.
- Start Slow: Don’t go full speed until you’ve mastered the technique.
- Have Fun, But Be Safe: Make sure you’re on stable ground and aware of your surroundings.
FAQs About Brenden Bates’ Happy Gilmore Swing
What is the Happy Gilmore swing?
The Happy Gilmore swing is a fictional golf technique from the 1996 movie Happy Gilmore. It involves running toward the ball and swinging the club with a hockey-like motion to hit the ball farther.
Did Brenden Bates get injured?
There’s no report of Bates being injured during his golf swing attempt. He appeared to take the fall in stride and stayed down briefly, likely out of embarrassment.
Why did Brenden Bates try the swing?
Bates likely tried the swing for fun, inspired by the popularity of Happy Gilmore and the upcoming sequel. Many athletes and golfers attempt it as a playful challenge.
How did the video go viral?
The NFL, Tight End University, and other major accounts shared the video on social media, leading to widespread views and reactions. Its comedic timing and connection to Happy Gilmore 2 boosted its popularity.
Is Brenden Bates a key player for the Browns?
Bates is a developing tight end who’s still working to earn a spot on the Browns’ roster. He’s known for his blocking skills and has potential to contribute in two-tight-end sets.
Conclusion
Brenden Bates’ attempt at the Happy Gilmore swing may not have gone as planned, but it’s given fans a hilarious moment to enjoy. The Cleveland Browns tight end showed his fun side, reminding us that even NFL players can have a laugh at themselves. As Bates continues to work toward a bigger role with the Browns, this viral fail might just help him connect with fans. With Happy Gilmore 2 on the horizon, expect more athletes to try this iconic swing—hopefully with better results! For now, Bates’ tumble is a reminder to have fun, stay safe, and maybe practice before swinging for the stars.
