Quarterback Johnny Manziel was a mess during the Cleveland Browns’ 24-23 preseason loss to the Washington Redskins on Monday. He threw for 65 yards on just 6 of 17 passing. But perhaps the worst thing Manziel did on Monday was flipping the bird to the Redskins bench in the third quarter, which was caught by ESPN’s cameras.
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There’s a solid argument to be made that Manziel’s middle finger isn’t a big deal, considering vulgar language isn’t exactly uncommon on a football field. But given that many view Manziel as someone that lacks poise and is immature, a public display like that was a very dangerous move.
Not surprisingly, considering NFL teams dislike any and all distractions, Manziel’s middle finger will hurt him in the battle for the Browns’ Week 1 starting quarterback job, Cleveland coach Mike Pettine hinted at on Tuesday.
Manziel’s certainly fortunate that his main competition for the quarterback job, Brian Hoyer, also had far from a great night on Monday. The five-year veteran threw for just 16 yards on 2 of 6 passing. A solid performance from Hoyer on Monday very well could have locked up the job for him, considering Manziel’s struggles and antics. But the race continues.
The Browns next preseason game is set for Saturday against the St. Louis Rams in Cleveland.