Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel could face disciplinary action stemming from his recent domestic incident under the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
Manziel, who spent much of the offseason in rehab for alcohol abuse, admitted to drinking after a recent driving incident in which he had a dispute with his girlfriend. We already know that the Browns are looking into the incident and considering potential discipline, but the NFL is as well, and this opens the door to the possibility that Roger Goodell could intervene. Goodell could theoretically put Manziel on paid leave at any time if it is believed he violated the league personal conduct policy, according to ESPN.
The personal conduct policy prohibits “actual or threatened physical violence against another person, including dating violence, domestic violence, child abuse, and other forms of family violence.” If Goodell has reason to believe that this policy was violated, he could place Manziel on paid leave. The policy states that this should not be taken as a finding of guilt or innocence and should not be compared to a criminal trial.
Manziel isn’t starting for the Browns anyway, but the question that must be asked is at what point are the distractions being created by the backup quarterback outweighing any benefits there may be to holding onto him. Former NFL coach and current analyst Bill Cowher is just one believer that the Browns should cut ties with Manziel, believing him not worth the trouble. We also know that the Browns organization has “serious concerns” about Manziel and his conduct. If the NFL intervenes, the Browns’ willingness to stick by him will certainly be tested.
