Johnny Manziel Cleveland Browns: Coach Says 'Johnny Football' Passes First Test
Johnny Manziel had a three-day camp with his fellow rookies and free agents, and Cleveland Browns coach Mike Pettine was impressed with what he saw from the former Texas A&M standout.
Pettine said in a news conference on Monday that Manziel, who was the 22nd overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, performed well in their rookie minicamp, showing his skills in a decent way despite playing alongside players, who are also unfamiliar with Cleveland's play.
"It was a good start for him," Pettine said via ESPN. "We weren't that concerned about the execution of plays. It was very difficult with a pieced-together offensive line and receiving corps guys who were learning the offense, too. It was a little ragged across the board when you're bringing in guys and it's new to all of them. I thought he did a good job handling himself in the huddle."
And after a successful first week in the NFL, Manziel is set to practice with the team's veteran players, including Brian Hoyer, whom he will compete with for the starting quarterback position.
The first-year coach is excited to see Manziel hang around with their veterans, and he is expecting an intense showdown between the 21-year-old rookie and Hoyer, who is not expected to give up his starting spot without giving a fight.
"I don't know if they're going to be sending each other Christmas cards anytime soon," Pettine said. "But they both know they're in it together, and they're going to compete. I think they both feel comfortable that, as a staff, we're going to put the best quarterback that puts us in position to win games, we're going to put him out there."
The Browns implemented strict media access during Manziel's three-day camp, allowing reporters to watch for only 15 minutes on Saturday.
Pettine said that the team is trying to minimize the distraction for Manziel and the other young players, but he quickly added that they are planning to provide greater media access moving forward.
"We're well aware of what the league rules are, and we'll open it up to the national media this week," Pettine said. "I think it's once a week is the policy. We're not going to go overboard with it. There will be a limited amount of time you can film, and certain players will be available certain days. That's how we'll go moving forward."
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