When video surfaced of Johnny Manziel partying during the Browns’ bye week, there immediately speculation whether the team would impose any punishment on the 22-year-old quarterback. Early in the day on Tuesday, head coach Mike Pettine said he was concerned about the repeated pattern of behavior.
Later in the day, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Manziel would be the third string quarterback when the Browns face the Ravens on Monday night.
Josh McCown will be the starting quarterback on Monday night against the Ravens.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 24, 2015
Johnny Manziel will be Browns third-string QB Monday night, behind starter Josh McCown and Austin Davis.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 24, 2015
During Cleveland’s last game, Manziel completed 33-of-45 passes for 372 yards with one touchdown and one interception against the Steelers. A couple of days later, Pettine named Manziel the team’s starting quarterback for the remainder of the season. Now, he finds himself back on the bench.
Despite taking what Pettine called “a big step forward” in terms of playing quarterback, Manziel’s off-the-field incidents could have him on the verge of wearing out his welcome in Cleveland. The incident he had with his girlfriend last month understandably led to concern within the organization.
“Everyone in this organization wants what is best for Johnny just like we do for every player in our locker room. I’m especially disappointed in his actions and behavior because he has been working very hard,” Pettine said in a statement, via ESPN.
You have to wonder how much longer the Browns will be patient with their young quarterback. It may not take many more incidents before Manziel finds himself without a team.
