Johnny Maziel Getting Back up For Cleveland Browns
Dec 14, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
In his rookie year with the Cleveland Browns, first-round quarterback Johnny Maziel fell on his face. Alcoholism helped prevent him from putting in the work it takes to prepare and it showed. In turn, he lost some of the hope and trust his teammates and the organization had in him.
But after a stint in rehab, he seems to be a different man with his alcoholism giving way to profsionalism. And the Browns are now saying that Manziel can still emerge as the quarterback of the future. Offensive coordinator John DeFilippo has gushed over Manziel’s work over the past two weeks.
DeFilippo told Cleveland.com, “All I know is this—From the moment he stepped in this building from the last two weeks, he’s been nothing but a consummate professional. He’s spent every hour that he’s been allowed to spend in this building.”I can’t predict the future, but all I can do is tell you right now Johnny Manziel is putting himself in a position to be a quarterback in the NFL.”
McCown has the inside track to keep the starting job throughout the summer and into the 2015 season. But from the sound of things, even though the plan is for Manziel to learn for now, he has a fighting chance to play if he keeps this up. Sure, we know Manziel will get a shot if McCown fails and the Browns are out of the playoffs late in the season.
But does it have to take that long?
McCown has only had on good year in 12 so if Maziel keep it up, it could be early.
I love a redemption story so stay posted on this one.