The Cleveland Browns are maintaining a positive voice while Johnny Manziel once again dominates the NFL headlines. The team confirmed the rookie quarterback was entering a rehab program in order to get himself back on track. Cleveland released a statement saying they will support Manziel through this ordeal and believe he can make a positive improvement to better himself. However, with Manziel out at the moment, the Browns cannot hide the fact that they must make quarterback changes a priority this offseason.
The Browns are hopeful that Manziel is back and healthy come training camp, but there are simply no guarantees. According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com, the Browns believe that Manziel's stint at the rehab facility will not extend throughout the summer and the quarterback will be able to return. General manager Ray Farmer continues to voice his support and confidence for the team's first-round draft pick.
"We respect Johnny's initiative in this decision and will fully support him throughout this process. Our players' health and well-being will always be of the utmost importance to the Cleveland Browns," Farmer said, via ESPN.com. "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."
Manziel needed all of the work he could get this offseason in terms of football. The rookie quarterback only saw a brief amount of playing time this year and what was displayed was not all positive. The Browns have already stated that they were uncertain the 2015 starting quarterback was already on the roster and now that statement appears to be even truer.
According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Browns are looking to get a jump start on contract talks with Brian Hoyer quickly. The veteran quarterback is preparing for free agency with the hopes of signing with a team that guarantees him the starting job. Cleveland is that team and the Browns would be smart to retain the veteran at all costs. Hoyer proved he could win by getting Cleveland a solid start to their season. His familiarity with the franchise and players make him the best option in 2015 with Manziel out.
The Browns could also eye a draft move for Marcus Mariota. May Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reported that the Browns love what they see from the former Oregon star and will try to grab him. However, if that fails, they will simply hold their spot in the middle of the draft instead of trying to grab Jameis Winston. Manziel will remain on the team regardless of the trade rumors surrounding him, but the quarterback will likely not be seen on the field.
