Browns owner Jimmy Haslem hasn’t given up on Johnny Manziel

By Vinnie Criscenzo | Feb 12, 2015

Dec 21, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) on the sidelines in the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

Browns owner Jimmy Haslem says he has not given up on quarterback Johnny Manziel.

Owner Jimmy Haslem knew that when his Cleveland Browns drafted polarizing quarterback Johnny Manziel that he would have his work cut out for him. Still, the playing ability that Manziel possesses was worth taking a risk on.

As expected, we’ve seen Manziel struggle in his first year as a professional, both on and off the field. He only appeared in three games this season for the Browns, including two starts in Week 15 and 16. In his two starts, Manziel failed to throw for even 100 yards or a passing touchdown. Manziel finished with 175 passing yards with zero touchdowns, two interceptions and a 51.4 completion percentage. He also added one rushing touchdown.

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Obviously, a rookie quarterback is going to struggle, but it seems like Manziel still has a long way to go to becoming an NFL quarterback. Still, you saw flashes of what he could be at times.

Off the field, Manziel has struggled with being a professional as well. He seemed to be still thinking he’s still at Texas A&M playing football, except now he’s getting paid for it. It’s good to treat life like a party, but that means to enjoy life, not actually party 24/7.

It seems that Johnny finally got the message though, as he recently admitted himself into rehab to straighten up his personality. He admitted himself without any pressure from anyone else, just himself, as he wants to repair relationships with his friends, family and professional relationships.

Browns owner Jimmy Haslem knows Manziel is going through a difficult time, and he refuses to give up on the young quarterback.

"I think it’s way too early to give up on him. We certainly haven’t given up on him. If it’s two years from now, and Johnny hasn’t played any or doesn’t have his personal life together, that’s different. It’s way too early. Everybody is way too harsh. He’s an easy guy to pile on to."

"Our primary interest is making sure he gets well, if you will – fixes himself. However long that takes, we are going to stand beside him. We hope Johnny can get that straightened out, because we think he’s a really good athlete who can help our team. But the first thing he’s got to do is get himself fixed."

It’s very important that Haslem continues to support Johnny through this tough situation. Yes, Manziel certainly has behavioral issues that needs adjusting. However, he does get a lot of undeserved scrutiny at times. It’s easy for a young kid who’s a national sensation to get caught up in the spotlight and get sucked into a lifestyle and it’s hard to break out of it. Johnny has taken the first step by going and getting help, which is tremendous accomplishment by him.

Hopefully, Johnny gets the help he needs and comes back refocused and ready to work to become an NFL quarterback.

H/T Black Sports Online

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