The Johnny Manziel era in Cleveland is going to have to wait a while longer.
On Wednesday, Browns coach Mike Pettine announced that veteran quarterback Josh McCown has cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol and will get the start against the Oakland Raiders on Sunday.
There was speculation earlier in the week that Manziel, who played well enough to lead his team to a win over the Tennessee Titans last weekend, would remain Cleveland’s starting quarterback even when McCown returned. However, Pettine stood behind McCown publicly all summer and is apparently not willing to change his stance after one good game from Manziel.
This likely isn’t going to go over well with Browns fans. While Manziel hasn’t exactly been outstanding in McCown’s absence, he was a first-round draft pick and has far more upside. McCown is, at most, a steady veteran who probably won’t make as many mistakes as Manziel, though he did throw 14 interceptions compared to just 11 touchdowns with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last season.
We know one NFL analyst who must be thrilled to see Manziel heading back to the bench. But as football fans, it’s hard to not be disappointed with the news.
