The narrative surrounding Johnny Manziel’s NFL career continues to evolve, driven by the quarterback’s own candid reflections. Labeling Manziel a “draft bust” has been a common refrain since his departure from the Cleveland Browns, but recent statements are adding nuance to this assessment. Manziel is pushing back, offering his perspective on his struggles and challenging the singular focus on his shortcomings. His most recent comments surfaced in July and August 2025, with appearances on the Impaulsive podcast on July 17, 2025, and the Glory Daze Podcast on August 30, 2025. An interview with Greg McElroy on PFSN also contributed to these recent revelations around July 16, 2025. Earlier in February 2024, he discussed his career on Shannon Sharpe’s “Club Shay Shay” podcast.
Manziel’s Cleveland Experience
Manziel’s time with the Cleveland Browns, from his drafting in 2014 to his release in 2016, was marked by both high expectations and significant challenges. Drafted with the 22nd overall pick, the Heisman Trophy winner from Texas A&M arrived in Cleveland with the hope of revitalizing a struggling franchise. However, his on-field performance and off-field behavior quickly led to questions about his commitment and maturity. According to Browns Nation, the Browns were hoping Manziel would bring the same energy he had in college to the NFL.
In recent interviews, Manziel has been particularly candid about his struggles in Cleveland. He stated that he “hated Cleveland so much” and that the city “aided to my depression for sure,” according to reports from The Big Lead. These are strong words that underscore the personal toll his time with the Browns took on him. He also admitted to a lack of commitment to the NFL “grind,” prioritizing fame and partying over the dedication required for professional football, a sentiment echoed on Dawg Pound Daily.
The “Bust” Conversation
The label of “bust” is a harsh one in professional sports, reserved for players who fail to live up to their potential. Manziel has been frequently cited as an example of a draft bust, given his short and unproductive NFL career. However, he is now actively pushing back against this narrative, arguing that the situation is more complex than a simple label suggests.
Sharing the Blame
A key element of Manziel’s recent comments is his attempt to share the “bust” label with other players from his draft class. Specifically, he points to Justin Gilbert, a cornerback selected eighth overall by the Browns in the same 2014 draft. “I’m not even the biggest bust in my class from the Browns,” Manziel remarked on the Glory Daze Podcast. By highlighting Gilbert, Manziel appears to be arguing that the Browns’ drafting woes extended beyond his own selection.
This isn’t to say Manziel is absolving himself of responsibility. He has openly acknowledged his own failings, including his lack of dedication and his struggles with mental health. However, by drawing attention to Gilbert, he is suggesting that the Browns’ struggles in identifying and developing talent were a broader issue. The Big Lead has picked up on Manziel’s sentiment, highlighting the Browns’ overall struggles in the 2014 draft.
Contextualizing Manziel’s Struggles
Beyond the specific issue of the “bust” label, Manziel’s recent comments offer valuable context for understanding his struggles in the NFL. His acknowledgement of mental health challenges and his dissatisfaction with life in Cleveland shed light on the personal factors that contributed to his downfall. These are important considerations when evaluating his career.
Furthermore, Manziel’s reflections highlight the immense pressure faced by young athletes entering professional sports. The transition from college stardom to the NFL can be difficult, and not all players are equipped to handle the demands and expectations. As noted on PFSN by Greg McElroy, the NFL requires an unwavering commitment that Manziel, by his own admission, was not prepared to give.
Impact on the Browns’ Legacy
Manziel’s comments also serve as a reminder of the Cleveland Browns’ long-standing struggles to find a franchise quarterback. The team has cycled through numerous quarterbacks since their return to the NFL in 1999, with limited success. Manziel was seen as a potential solution to this problem, but his failure only added to the team’s woes. Dawg Pound Daily has frequently discussed the Browns’ quarterback carousel and the impact it has had on the team’s overall performance.
The Browns’ struggles extend beyond the quarterback position, as evidenced by Manziel’s reference to Justin Gilbert. The 2014 draft, in particular, is viewed as a missed opportunity for the team. The failure to develop both Manziel and Gilbert contributed to the Browns’ continued struggles and further cemented their reputation as a team in need of a turnaround. The Big Lead reports on the Browns’ continued search for a franchise quarterback since Manziel’s departure.
Reassessing a Career
Johnny Manziel’s recent reflections offer a more complete picture of his time with the Cleveland Browns. While the “bust” label may continue to be applied, his comments provide context and nuance to this assessment. His struggles with mental health, his lack of dedication, and the Browns’ broader organizational challenges all played a role in his NFL downfall. By speaking openly about his experiences, Manziel is prompting a re-evaluation of his career and the factors that contributed to his lack of success. Ultimately, his story serves as a cautionary tale about the pressures of professional sports and the importance of mental health and commitment.
