NFL Browns demote Manziel after party

Cleveland's controversial quarterback Johnny Manziel has been dumped to a third-string role due to off-field antics.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel

Cleveland quarterback Johnny Manziel has been dumped to a third-string role due to off-field antics. (AAP)

Controversial quarterback Johnny Manziel's reign as a starter for the Cleveland Browns proved short-lived as the NFL franchise dumped the youngster one day after a video of him partying hit social media sites.

Manziel, who spent three months in a rehabilitation facility he entered voluntarily in January, was seen in video and photos appearing to be partying with alcohol last week during the team's week off.

Browns coach Mike Pettine said in a statement veteran quarterback Josh McCown would start Monday's game against the Baltimore Ravens and would continue to be his starter.

Pettine said Manziel has been relegated to third-string quarterback.

Manziel, 22, known by the nickname "Johnny Football" from his standout collegiate years at Texas A&M, had been named the Browns' starter for the rest of the season after throwing for 372 yards in a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers just over a week ago.

The quarterback change was decided after a series of photos and videos surfaced on Monday of Manziel allegedly partying last weekend in Texas during the team's bye week.

Manziel's erratic off-field behavior has been an issue with the Browns (2-8) since he was drafted in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft.

He spent 10 weeks in a treatment facility during the off-season for undisclosed reasons and last month was questioned by police after witnesses reported him driving dangerously and getting physical in an altercation with his girlfriend.

Manziel was cleared of any wrongdoing in the incident.


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Source: AAP



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