The Loop

Shirtless J.R. Smith returned, proving all is right with the world

September 21, 2018
World Series - Chicago Cubs v Cleveland Indians - Game Seven

Ezra Shaw

The Cleveland Browns won their first game in forever on Thursday night. But that's burying the lede out of Cuyahoga County. For the real story is not Baker Mayfield's performance, but the performance of one Earl Joseph Smith.

The man they call "J.R" made a promise to the good people that reside in the Mistake by the Lake: If the Browns accidentally won, he would go shirtless, conjuring memories of his epic week-long run sans shell after the Cavaliers won the NBA title in 2016.

And accidentally win they did—if it was up to Hue Jackson, Tyrod Taylor would still be out there underthrowing teammates—bringing out the best humanity has to offer:

So what if Smith's contract is a black hole for the Cavaliers, or that basic math alludes him. For moments like this, he's worth every penny.