Johnny Manziel will need to play a lot better going forward than he did in the preseason if he wants to be known as “Johnny Cleveland,” but if that day ever comes the former Texas A&M star will be the one reaping the benefits. According to ESPN’s Darren Rovell, Manziel recently applied for a trademark to the phrase “Johnny Cleveland.”
This is nothing new for Manziel, who has now filed for 10 trademarks associated with his brand. It’s also nothing new for professional athletes who need to protect themselves from random people profiting off their name.
Two people already tried to trademark “Johnny Cleveland” but were denied, as the term is clearly associated with Manziel. Fans have also tried to trademark “Johnny Be Good,” “Johnny Browns,” and “Money Manziel” but been denied. Manziel is still waiting for his trademark of the famous “Johnny Football” nickname to be approved.
One of the more interesting trademarks Manziel has filed for is “The House That Johnny Built,” a reference to Texas A&M’s renovated stadium in College Station. Manziel’s once-close friend Nate Finch filed for the same trademark, but the USPTO ruled that Finch would need Manziel’s permission.
Again, this is all pretty standard stuff. But if Merril Hoge finds out about the “Johnny Cleveland” trademark, I’m sure he won’t hesitate to throw it in that “juvenile punk’s” face.
