Skip to main content

Browns' Kyle Shanahan: Johnny Manziel worth first-round draft pick

Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan said Thursday that rookie backup quarterback Johnny Manziel was worth the first-round draft pick. The Browns traded up to the 22nd pick from the 26th spot to get Manziel in the 2014 NFL draft.
  • Author:
  • Publish date:

Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan said Thursday that rookie backup quarterback Johnny Manziel was worth the first-round draft pick.

The Browns traded up to the 22nd pick from the 26th spot to get Manziel in the 2014 NFL draft.

Manziel competed with veteran Brian Hoyer in training camp for the starting quarterback spot, but was named the backup in late August by head coach Mike Pettine.

Everything you need to know about the 2014 NFL season

From the Cleveland Plain Dealer:

"(He's) worth a first-round draft pick,'' Shanahan told reporters Thursday. "We liked him. I'm glad he's here. I've loved coaching Johnny so far, he's a professional. I don't really know all the stuff that people are ripping him about. I don't have time to read it all, but Johnny's been great. I'm excited to see him play, (and I) think you guys will be too.''

Shanahan wouldn't say if the Browns had plans to use Manziel on Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but said he has never used two quarterbacks on purpose before.

In two seasons at Texas A&M, Manziel threw for 7,820 yards, 63 touchdowns, and 22 interceptions in 26 games. He also ran for 2,169 yards and 30 touchdowns.

The Browns also drafted cornerback Justin Gilbert from Oklahoma State in the first round, with the No. 8 overall pick.

BISHOP: Harvin key to a Seahawks repeat

- Sarah Barshop