There has been no word yet on whether or not Johnny Manziel will sign with a CFL team, but the quarterback is intent on taking steps to get back into professional football in the near future.
On Wednesday, Manziel announced in a statement to Bleacher Report that he will be taking part in the Spring League this year.
“Football has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. Sometimes you take for granted how much you value something until it’s gone. My goal is to make it back to the NFL and I realize I have to earn that privilege,” Manziel said. “The Spring League has provided me with a great opportunity to play ball again, and ultimately, that is all I want to do. I miss the competition. I’d like to thank Brian Woods and The Spring League staff for this opportunity to play the game I love. I’ve made my share of mistakes, but I’m 25 years old and I know my best football is ahead of me.”
The Spring League is a three-week scouting showcase in Texas that held its first season last year. Two of the most well-known players to take part were Greg Hardy and Ahmad Bradshaw, though neither was successful in reviving his NFL career.
Manziel has been negotiating a contract with the CFL’s Hamilton Tiger-Cats, who hold his exclusive rights. While Manziel’s camp originally set a deadline of late January to work out a deal, we have heard no updates in the last two weeks or so.
Earlier this week, Manziel opened up about his struggles with alcohol abuse and a mental disorder. The 25-year-old seems determined to rehab his image and continue his playing career, though he still has a long way to go before any NFL team would consider signing him.
