ESPN defends Skip Bayless calling Johnny Manziel an alcoholic

Dec 28, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) warms up prior to the game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) warms up prior to the game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

ESPN defended Skip Bayless for calling Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel an alcoholic.

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ESPN’s Skip Bayless had some harsh words for Johnny Manziel recently calling him an alcoholic, as well as a liar on an episode of “First Take.” Manziel has been known to be a heavy drinker, but some still took it the wrong way and were upset with Bayless’ comments on television. Despite the harsh words, ESPN stuck by Bayless and defended his actions in a recent press release.

"“When discussing the widely reported public behavior, Skip based his comments on information he has from sources within and around the Browns’ organization with knowledge of Manziel’s continued pattern of behavior, as well as Skip’s personal family experiences with alcoholism.”"

At 22 years of age, Manziel has been known as a very aggressive party-goer throughout his football career. He was in off-field trouble a lot during his days with Texas A&M, and there was major concern heading into the NFL Draft. Those concerns were the reason that he slipped all the way down to the Browns with the 22nd overall pick.

There is no question that Manziel has the potential to turn things around and become a quality and playmaking starting quarterback, but he has to mature. Bayless may have been harsh on him, but there are plenty of things that Manziel could learn from listening to these words and making some changes.

Johnny Manziel was one of the most disappointing players throughout the 2014 season in the NFL, and has left the Cleveland Browns with question marks about whether or not he can ever become a franchise quarterback.

He stayed out of off-the-field issues for the majority of the season, but ended up getting in trouble the last week of the regular season for missing practice due to a party that he hosted, allegedly. Josh Gordon was also suspended for the last game of the season for missing practice after the reported party. Manziel’s teammates were upset about his actions, and he was fined by the team as well.

Manziel finished his rookie season throwing for 175 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions. Against the Bills in his first game with extended playing time, he was able to get into the end zone on a 10-yard run.

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