Saturday night we finally got to see the debut of Johnny Manziel with the Cleveland Browns, signaling the official beginning of the battle between he and Brian Hoyer for the starting job under center. Neither one really separated themselves from the other, but it doesn’t really seem to matter all that much to the guys in the locker room, according to safety Donte Whitner.
More from Cleveland Browns
- Browns release 2022 draft pick after allegations he threatened a woman
- Browns wave white flag against the Steelers months ahead of time
- NFL Power Rankings: Who is the best quarterback in each division?
- NFL Power Rankings: Which teams will have the best rushing attacks this season?
- NFL rumors: DeAndre Hopkins reunion with former quarterback off the table
In speaking to Peter King for MMQB, Whitner noted that the locker room really is fine with either one of the quarterbacks at this point.
“It’s been fierce,” Whitner said of the competition. “Two guys fighting for their lives. It’s close. I’d say [the locker room] is split about 50-50. We know they both can play.”
No matter what players may think of someone personally, the fact of the matter is that they want the person who gives them the best chance to win under center.
But even with that being said, Whitner has been impressed with Johnny so far.
“Very quiet,” Whitner said of Manziel. “Very respectful. He’s earning his keep so far. He’s not asking for any privileges. He’s just a rookie, and he’s acting like one. When we have the rookie show, he’ll sing just like the rest of them. As far as football goes, I’m seeing him put the ball on the money like a veteran. Sometimes the receiver drops it. Sometimes the receiver isn’t even looking for the ball and it bounces off him. He’s got the confidence a quarterback has to have.”
This competition will heat up even more this coming Monday, as it’s expected that Manziel will get the start for their second preseason game against the Washington Redskins.