Brian Hoyer waiting on text investigation to decide future

Dec 21, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer (6) looks to pass as guard Joel Bitonio (75) and tight end Jim Dray (81) and tackle Joe Thomas (73) block an Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Kawann Short (99) defends in the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer (6) looks to pass as guard Joel Bitonio (75) and tight end Jim Dray (81) and tackle Joe Thomas (73) block an Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Kawann Short (99) defends in the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Cleveland Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer said he’s waiting to see how the ‘TextGate’ investigation into the team unfolds before deciding on his future.


Brian Hoyer remained mum on his status as an impending free agent, but he did shed some light on what will aid his decision-making process as his representation discusses a possible new contract with the Cleveland Browns. He’s primarily interested to see how the latest investigation into the team’s tampering-via-text fiasco unfolds.

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“To read the stories and see what’s going on, I’m just as interested as you guys are to see where that comes out,” Hoyer said per ESPN. “Especially because, when you read it has to do with the quarterback situation and play-calling. That’s something that could affect how I feel about (free agency). For me, I’m looking forward to see what comes out of that.”

The NFL is investigating the Browns for alleged texts sent by the front office, specifically GM Ray Farmer, to the assistant coaches in the press box and employees on the sidelines, regarding the quarterback situation and the prospect of playing rookie Johnny Manziel over the veteran Hoyer. They’re also looking to determine if Farmer did so at the behest of owner Jimmy Haslem.

Hoyer has every right to be concerned about the team’s intentions as they pertain to him. If the front office was urging the coaching staff to play Manziel, then Hoyer will run, not walk, to the nearest squad that offers him a starting opportunity without the drama.

Especially troubling for Browns fans is the prospect of Manziel starting. Based on his limited action in 2014, Manziel looks far from ready to become an NFL starter. If Hoyer was to bolt town, the Browns would be left with Manziel as their most viable starting option, which is hardly appealing.

Brian Hoyer may not be a top-tier quarterback, but he brings a higher floor than does Manziel, who fell through the trap door in a putrid 30-0 loss in his NFL debut this past season.

Hoyer’s concerns were backed up by Browns legend, Bernie Kosar, who didn’t hold back in his criticism of his old team.

“I don’t know anyone who can be consistently successful in winning within this culture and within this organization right now,” Kosar said. “You just can’t play football like this.”

If the NFL concludes that the Browns front office tampered with the coaching staff mid-game, Brian Hoyer likely won’t have to play football like that again.

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