CLEVELAND (AP) – The Browns have released troublesome quarterback Johnny Manziel, ending his drama-filled stay with the team.
The team finally cut ties on Friday with the 2012 Heisman Trophy winner after two disappointing seasons. Manziel faces an uncertain future in the NFL and potential criminal charges in Texas following a domestic violence incident.
Manziel’s end had been expected for weeks, and the Browns announced his departure with eight words: “The Cleveland Browns have waived QB Johnny Manziel.” The team included a few stats but no other comment.
It’s over.
Cleveland used a first-round pick in the 2014 draft to select Manziel, an electrifying star at Texas A&M who earned his “Johnny Football” nickname in college with side-armed throws and scrambles for touchdowns. But Manziel’s pro career has not gone well as he has become better known more for his excessive social life than anything else.
Manziel started just eight games for the Browns, who supported him through a lengthy stay in rehab last year but finally grew tired of his antics and are moving on.
He passed for 1,675 yards with seven touchdowns and seven interceptions