Report: Johnny Manziel struggling to learn Cleveland Browns playbook
By Josh Sanchez
On Wednesday, the Cleveland Browns chose Brian Hoyer over Johnny Manziel as their starting quarterback for the 2014-15 NFL season-opener against the division rival Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field.
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Both Hoyer and Manziel struggled throughout the preseason, but Browns head coach Mike Pettine chose to roll with Hoyer because of his experience and leadership.
One factor that could also have played into the Browns’ decision was Manziel’s reported struggles to learn the team’s playbook.
Manziel did not use a playbook during his time at Texas A&M, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that he had a difficult time transitioning to the NFL. Traveling during the offseason, drunkenly floating on swans and getting caught in a bathroom with a rolled up $20 bill likely didn’t help his ability to pick up the offense quickly.
From Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network:
Browns soon found how much of a learning curve a college spread QB like Manziel has. Play calls were tough. Snaps under center. Protections.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 20, 2014
#Browns playbook was 1st Manziel used. A&M didn't use one. Battle was "Me vs the playbook." Players knew when he struggled to call the play
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 20, 2014
If Manziel ever wants to take the field with the starting offense in a meaningful game, he should spend the next few weeks with his nose in the playbook waiting for the Browns to call his number.