The Cleveland Browns have decided to shut down second-year quarterback Johnny Manziel for the remainder of the preseason due to a sore elbow, according to Pat McManamon of ESPN. Manziel sustained the elbow ailment after the second preseason game last Thursday night against the Buffalo Bills, in which he played well throughout the second half.
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"“He’ll lose out on all that real game experience, but we’re very pleased with where he is,” head coach Mike Pettine said."
With Manziel on the sideline for the next few weeks, it seems that Josh McCown will have no further challenge to his road toward the starting quarterback spot. McCown has been mediocre at best throughout the preseason, throwing a pair of brutal interceptions versus Buffalo. However, the 36-year-old was given a three-year deal in the offseason by general manager Ray Farmer, showing that the Browns have ample confidence in the career backup.
Hopefully the sore elbow is exactly that for Manziel. After having a very disappointing rookie campaign, Manziel has seemingly cleaned his act up both on and off the field. Manziel sought help for some substance issues and checked into a rehab facility last winter before emerging as a hard worker throughout OTAs and training camp. Against Buffalo, Manziel completed 10-of-18 passes for 108 yards and a touchdown without an interception.
Cleveland is expected to finish last in the AFC North, being the only team in that division that failed to reach the postseason in 2014. The Browns have a new-look offense with Brian Hartline and Dwayne Bowe coming into the system, replacing tight end Jordan Cameron and receiver Josh Gordon as the top targets.