Browning played for local clubs Glasgow Perthshire, Bonhill Hibs, Vale of Leven, and Dumbarton Harp before arriving at Parkhead in 1911.
[2] He made his league debut for Celtic in a 1–0 victory over Third Lanark at Cathkin Park on 2 November 1912 and soon displaced John Brown as the regular starter on the wing.
In seven years with Celtic he managed to score a goal every three games, including 15 from 38 league matches during the 1914–15 season.
[2] On 28 February 1914, Browning made his first and only appearance for Scotland, in a goalless draw against Wales at Celtic Park.
[7] He represented the Scottish League XI twice, again in 1914[8] and was also selected to play for the Glasgow FA against Sheffield in the same year.