Johnny Manziel is holding a personal pro day for NFL scouts and coaches on Thursday, and it’s kind of a big deal. What other player can you think of that would get George H.W. Bush and Gov. Rick Perry to attend his private workout?
Manziel is doing things a bit differently, and we don’t just mean his guest list. Unlike other quarterbacks who have held private workouts, he will wear a helmet and shoulder pads while throwing passes. Most players throw for teams in shorts and a t-shirt. NFL.com’s Gil Brandt asked Manziel why he was going with the unorthodox approach.
“Isn’t the game played with (a helmet and shoulder pads) on?” Manziel replied.
He has a point. Almost all quarterbacks find it easier to showcase their accuracy and arm strength without restrictions, but Manziel wants to show NFL teams exactly what they would be getting by drafting him. If Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer is any indication, teams want to know every little detail.
“I want to talk to the custodian. I want to talk to his teammates,” Zimmer told USA Today Sports on Wednesday. “I want to talk to his landlord. I want to find out those things,” Zimmer said Wednesday. “We’ll know what kind of football player he is by the end of the day and how he does with all that other stuff, but it’s all the other intangible things.”
Manziel will also be throwing while under a simulated pass rush.
Also, Manziel will be throwing with a "rush" today — he'll be chased with a broom by coach @georgewhitfield. 60-plus throws in the script.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 27, 2014
You have to admire the courage. I’m sure his new friends appreciate it.
