Stakes are high for Johnny Manziel, Cleveland Browns

Nov 30, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) throws a pass prior to the game against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

The Cleveland Browns aren’t in the playoff hunt but the stakes are high for the team and quarterback Johnny Manziel. His time with the Cleveland Browns now depends on his behavior and play over the last quarter of this season. He violated the trust of head coach Mike Pettine, his teammates and the organization a few times too many.

His latest off-the field incident, partying during the teams bye-week, has already ruined one chance to start. As it is, head coach Mike Pettine would rather do anything in the world but start him. According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the team felt “betrayed” by what Manziel did.

They particularly had a problem with him lying to them about when the video was shot. But Josh McCown is on injured reserve now and Austin Davis proved the Browns can’t win with him. At 2-10, Browns have nothing to lose and need to see what they have in the 2014 1st-round pick.

So by popular demand, the owner’s request, and default with emphasis on default, Manziel is back. They will be drafting very early in May so Manziel’s play down the stretch will determine what the Browns do. As a starter so far this season, Manziel is 1-2 with four touchdowns, two interceptions and a 94.0 passer rating.

If Manziel plays well and stays out of trouble, he could start for the Browns next season or get traded for. If he struggles, he’ll go back to being a backup as there will be no trade market for him. And if he continues to be an off-field question mark, he won’t be worth the trouble for any NFL team.

The stakes are high for Manziel right now!