Earlier this offseason, Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel said he knew he had to take things more seriously if he wanted to be a successful NFL player. It seems he’s taken a major step in that direction.
Publicist Denise Michaels said Manziel entered treatment Wednesday, the Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Mary Kay Cabot reported Monday morning.
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Brad Beckworth, friend and adviser to Manziel and his family, confirmed the report and released this statement:
"Johnny knows there are areas in which he needs to improve in order to be a better family member, friend and teammate and he thought the off-season was the right time to take this step. On behalf of Johnny and his family, we’re asking for privacy until he rejoins the team in Cleveland."
Browns management has repeatedly said they aren’t sold on Manziel as the team’s quarterback of the future. Maybe this move to address his off-field issues will make the team reconsider his commitment level.
Cleveland general manager Ray Farmer also released a statement Monday morning:
"We respect Johnny's initiative in this decision and will fully support him throughout the process. Our players' health and well-being will always be of the utmost importance to the Cleveland Browns. We continually strive to create a supportive environment and provide the appropriate resources, with our foremost focus being on the individual and not just the football player. Johnny's privacy will be respected by us during this very important period and we hope that others will do the same."