Skip to content

Browns take Johnny Manziel after acquiring 22nd overall pick from Eagles

William Perlman/THE STAR-LEDGER via USA TODAY Sports

Click here to access our NFL Draft Tracker, which includes all seven rounds, trades and rumors.

"Johnny Football" is taking the circus to Cleveland.

The Browns have been the most active team during Thursday's draft and continued that trend by trading with the Eagles to get the 22nd overall pick. Cleveland used that pick to select former Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel, causing a stir among members of the crowd at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

The Browns traded their third-round pick (83rd overall) as well as the 26th overall selection in order to get 22 from the Eagles. Cleveland now has a new face of the franchise as the crowd errupted in cheers when his name was announced.

One of the most polarizing prospects in recent memory, Manziel lit up the college football world with stunning, often improvised plays during his two seasons in College Station (the first of which made him the first freshman ever to win the Heisman). Just as notable as his play on the field are the headlines he created for his off-field antics, which included allegedly selling autographs.

Manziel breaks the mold as a quarterback in nearly every conceivable way. At six feet tall and 207 lbs., he lacks ideal size. His passes are often erratic, and he has a tendency to pass up the easy read in favor of shots downfield. Nonetheless, he's a truly dynamic athlete with exceptional scrambling ability, a big arm and a rare competitive drive.

In 2013, Manziel led the SEC with 4,114 yards passing and 37 touchdowns (to just 13 interceptions). He added 759 yards and nine more touchdowns on 144 rushing attempts.

In 2012, Manziel threw for 3,707 yards and 26 touchdowns (to nine interception) and rushed for an astounding 1,410 yards and 21 touchdowns on 201 attempts.

Oh, and he had what may be the most memorable signature play of the past decade.

Can Manziel continue his magical run and emerge as a top-end quarterback in the NFL? The Browns just placed a big bet that he can. 

Brian Hoyer is likely very worried about his role as starting quarterback. The additions of Manziel and cornerback Justin Gilbert with the eighth overall pick makes for a successful first round from the Browns.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox