NFL
It may have been just another CFL preseason for some, but for Johnny Manziel it was so much more. After not competing in a professional capacity for over two years, Manziel has been given a second chance this season in the CFL. Signing with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats for the 2018 and 2019 seasons, the early returns for the former Heisman-Winner look good.
Manziel’s Fall from Grace
After an incredible college career, Manziel suffered mightily to adjust to life in the National Football League. The 22nd overall pick in the 2014 Draft, Johnny Football was overwhelmed by the party culture that accompanies NFL stardom.
Seemingly taking more shots at clubs than snaps on the field, Manziel quickly squandered his NFL dream. With more scandal than production over his time in Cleveland, the quarterback found himself out of a job in 2016.
Following his release, Johnny’s downward spiral continued. Nights at the club quickly turned into extended weekend benders. Legal troubles also followed, as Manziel was indicted on assault charges. Although dismissed in February of 2017, Johnny Manziel found himself at rock bottom.
Addressing His Internal Demons
Following the dismissal of the misdemeanor assault charge, Manziel has worked to rectify both his NFL career and his dignity.
Entering into therapy, Johnny looked to reclaim his mental stability and examine the destructive nature of his party lifestyle. Encouraged to stop drinking, Manziel has now been sober roughly nine months.
Additionally, specialists have diagnosed Manziel as Bipolar. Through medication and family support, Manziel has been working diligently to battle his internal demons.
With both his mind and body ready for another chance at pro football, the former first-round flame out looked to the CFL for a second chance.
Johnny Manziel Eyeing a #COMEBACKSZN
After working out for NFL and CFL teams with a stint in the NFL’s Spring League, Manziel inked a two-year deal with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats back in May. The move was a major step for Manziel, who has set his sights on reaching the NFL again.
Since 2017, Manziel’s mindset has been best defined by his brand, #ComebackSZN. Amidst the the disdain fans and players still hold for Johnny, Manziel has been been set on his return.
And now as the #2 QB on a CFL roster, Johnny Football is back to doing amazing things on the field.
Manziel Shines in CFL Preseason
Over limited snaps in the second half of each of Hamilton’s two preseason games, Johnny Manziel has been sensational.
In the Tiger-Cat’s first preseason game against the Toronto Argonauts, Manziel put on a show. Completing nine of eleven passes (81.8%) for 80 yards, Manziel was cautious but decisive. He also displayed his scrambling abilities on a trio of passes, extending plays with his feet to buy time for his receivers. Johnny added 10 yards on the ground in his limited action in the contest.
In the losing effort, Manziel posted the most impressive stat line among Hamilton’s trio of QBs.
In Hamilton’s second preseason game against the Montreal Alouettes, Manziel shined for a second straight week. Entering the game with Hamilton down by two scores, 14-0, the team looked to Johnny for a spark.
The 25 year old did not disappoint. On his first drive Manziel lead the his team on a 34 yard drive, capping it off with his first CFL touchdown pass.
Johnny finished his day with a strong line, completing twelve of twenty (60%) for 88 yards and a score. He added 4 carries for 19 yards on the ground, showing off his dual-threat capabilities.
Along with a strong showing from the Tiger-Cats defense, who forced two turnovers and five sacks, Manziel helped lead the team to an impressive come from behind victory. In line with his brand, #ComebackSZN, Hamilton will look to Manziel for similar resiliency in his regular season play.
Although in limited action, the Tiger-Cats have to be excited with the early returns of the Johnny Manziel reclamation project. Utilizing his mobility, Manziel and the Tiger-Cats featured a number of designed runs and option plays. Pairing their dedication to the run with quick reads for Manziel, Hamilton’s offense looked smooth under his lead.
What This Means for Johnny Football
While the sample size is small, it’s exciting to see Johnny back on the field making magic. Although not asked to make NFL caliber throws quiet yet, Manziel’s small splash in the CFL Preseason will make significant waves for the quarterback’s confidence.
Even though the Hamilton Tiger-Cats still plan to feature Hawaii product Bryant Moniz at startng quarterback, the undersized Manziel looms large in the background. Currently slated in as the backup, Manziel’s upside and NFL experience will surely buy him meaningful snaps this season with the Tiger-Cats.
While Manziel’s #ComebackSZN has taken major steps forward with success this CFL Preseason, his true test still lies ahead. With the Tiger-Cats season opener June 16th, all eyes will be on Johnny as he patiently waits for his opportunity.
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This article was originally written by former TSJ101SPORTS NFL Department Head and writer William Zurcher. Due to systems modalities, the article has been assigned to the author tag designation “Former Writers”.
