Johnny Manziel 'very much' in Browns' plans, Mike Pettine says

Kirstie Chiappelli

Johnny Manziel 'very much' in Browns' plans, Mike Pettine says image

Rumors of Johnny Manziel possibly getting the boot from the Browns began circulating after the quarterback's release from rehab, but coach Mike Pettine is quick to dismiss the speculation.

"I filed that one in the ridiculous category when it was brought to my attention," Pettine said Tuesday, per NFL.com, when asked about an ESPN report that claimed the Browns had "90 percent moved on" from their troubled, second-year quarterback after his disastrous rookie debut.

STEELE: Manziel receiving (and deserves) benefit of doubt after rehab stay 

"I use that number 90 percent, too, about the accuracy of reports that are out there, being 90 percent inaccurate," Pettine said. "I don't know where (Mortensen) would have gotten that from. (Manziel is) very much in our plans, and as we said, his career with us just hit the pause button. We've said this before, he's got to get himself right as a person first before we worry about Johnny the football player."

More than two months after checking into a rehabilitation facility for his off-field issues, Manziel was released April 11. He reported to the team's facility Monday for the start of offseason workouts with the hope of his renewing his commitment to the team and regaining his teammates' trust.

"He doesn't expect treatment any other way," Pettine said. "...I know that 'persona' stuff is out there, but if you ask the players, and they're probably the best ones to ask, I don't think they see that they feel the need or have ever felt the need to treat him any differently."

It appears Manziel's comeback attempt is off to a good start, as cornerback Joe Haden vouched to reporters that Manziel has indeed changed for the better since undergoing treatment.

Kirstie Chiappelli