Johnny Manziel's NFL career is not off to the start he was hoping for. After getting tossed numerous endorsement deals prior to getting drafted, Manziel has not been the star everyone has predicted. The Cleveland Browns quarterback has stepped onto the field once in a regular season game after Brian Hoyer earned the starting job while continuing to be the subject of negative press. Manziel says that he wishes he were playing and head coach Mike Pettine understands the frustrations.
Manziel is currently being investigated for a fight involving a fan after reportedly being out at 2:30 a.m. The situation does not look good and only adds to the negative press building up on the quarterback. According to Pettine, the situation is unfortunate, but the Browns support Manziel and his status with the team going forward.
"We're never comfortable with guys being involved in incidents that late at night," Pettine said, via Pro Football Talk. "There's a saying in the league, 'Nothing good happens after midnight.' I've had a talk with Johnny. He was very up-front with us and notified us immediately when it occurred. As far as in the building, he's been a true professional, he's done everything that's been asked of him, but obviously this is something that's unfortunate."
Pettine told reporters that the incident did not play a role in Manziel not playing against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 12. Hoyer was struggling heavily in the first half of the game, tossing three interceptions and not connecting with wide receivers. However, not once did Pettine consider playing Manziel in the game. The head coach simply said that the Browns remain very confident in Hoyer and believed he gave the team the best chance at winning.
"The way he handled it was outstanding," Pettine said. "I think the guys realize we wouldn't be where we are right now without Brian and that nobody is perfect. When you see a guy who's that hard on himself and is that much of a perfectionist it means a lot and they are going to play for him."
There continues to be speculation about what Manziel's future looks like. The Browns could opt to trade him if they re-sign Brian Hoyer. However, what kind of market will there be for Manziel? With quarterbacks like Mark Sanchez, Ryan Mallett and possibly even Robert Griffin III being available in free agency and Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota top draft picks, there might not be a team that makes Manziel a priority.
