Johnny Manziel Shares Perspective on Shedeur Sanders’ Start with the Browns
Johnny Manziel, the former quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, can relate to Shedeur Sanders as they both navigate the pressures of being in the national spotlight. Manziel was drafted by the Browns in 2014, and hopes were high in Cleveland that “Johnny Football” would finally bring some stability to the team’s quarterback position.
Looking back, NFL followers know how Manziel’s journey with the Browns turned out. However, Sanders, picked fifth overall, enters his first NFL season filled with optimism. Manziel seems to share that sentiment.
In discussing Sanders’ decision to partner with Sling TV, Manziel remarked, “I think everything he did after joining Cleveland was what he needed to do.” He mentioned the competitive quarterback room and the excitement surrounding Sanders’ college performance, particularly noting that Dillon Gabriel, another Browns quarterback, has significant talent as well.
Manziel expressed his hopes for Sanders during preseason, saying, “If you get called a starter, that’s amazing. Even if you’re number two or three, just keep grinding and stay comfortable—good things will come.” However, despite Sanders’ confidence in winning the job, veteran Joe Flacco is expected to start the season for the Browns.
After an impressive first preseason game, where Sanders completed 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns in a win against the Carolina Panthers, the media buzz was all about him. This performance made Manziel reflect on the NFL Draft in April, especially how Sanders, a highly regarded player, fell to the fifth round.
Manziel couldn’t help but comment on the peculiarities of media narratives. “I think it’s funny to see how fans react to reports,” he said. “Everything is hype until the real games start.” He reminisced about the pressures Cleveland media places on the team, mentioning the weariness that comes from hype versus actual performance.
He noted that covering the Browns requires a narrative of high expectations, which can sometimes crumble as the season progresses. “It can be frustrating when the desired success isn’t achieved, especially when you feel you have strong players on your side,” he explained, but he trusts Sanders will be prepared to tackle that pressure when it comes.
Unfortunately, Sanders has been dealing with an oblique injury recently sustained in practice, which may affect his performance ahead of the upcoming game against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Manziel Promotes Sling TV
Besides discussing football, Manziel is also promoting Sling TV as a way to catch games without overspending. He appreciates the options available, like a daily pass or weekend access, making it convenient for fans to watch games of interest without unnecessary costs.
Manziel summed it up, saying, “I just want to see the game without jumping through hoops. If something is $4.99, you pick what you want. It’s just so easy.” His enthusiasm for flexible viewing options shows that he’s as much a fan as he is a former player.
