5 reasons the Browns should not give up on Johnny Manziel
By Dani Bostick
5. Treatment for alcoholism can be an ongoing process
Manziel spent some time in rehab for an undetermined substance, but most believe it was for alcohol considering his well documented struggles. Even with that help, it doesn’t mean he won’t continue to struggle.
According to reports, Manziel’s relationship with alcohol began in high school when his parents attempted to make deals with him to curtail his alcohol consumption.
After some embarrassing incidents at Texas A&M and the appearance of prioritizing alcohol and parties over his job in the NFL, Manziel eventually landed in a 10-week inpatient rehabilitation program for a substance.
It seems the expectation in the media and within the Browns organization is that rehab should have cured Manziel. Certainly, that was Manziel’s hope as well. In April, he took full responsibility for the situation and described his commitment to his team, saying, “I look forward to seeing my teammates next week and focusing on football and my desire to be the best possible player, teammate, and man that I can be.”
Though he desires to be the best possible player, teammate, and man, Manziel will not be perfect, and his struggles with partying and alcohol may continue.
Does this mean there is no place for him with the Browns or in the NFL? No. Teams should be prepared that Manziel’s recovery may not be linear. There will be setbacks. Many NFL players struggle with similar issues, as do many lower-profile people in our communities.
Manziel’s indiscretions are setbacks, not the death knell of his career.
Next: 4. The Browns need stability