Von Miller extends support to Johnny Manziel after Super Bowl 50

Von Miller voiced his support for the Cleveland Browns’ troubled quarterback Johnny Manziel after winning Super Bowl 50 MVP on Sunday.

Broncos linebacker Von Miller voiced his support for the Cleveland Browns’ troubled quarterback Johnny Manziel after winning Super Bowl 50 MVP on Sunday. 

“Johnny Man, you know it’s a hard time," Miller said, according to CBS Sports. “I’ve been in the same situation. Just keep grinding. I’m here with you, brother. Keep grinding, you too can do it....I love you.”

The Browns are reportedly planning to release Manziel in March as a series of controversies have continued to plague his two-year career in Cleveland. Most recently, Dallas police opened an investigation into Manziel for allegedly physically assaulting his ex-girlfriend.

• WOO: A history of controversies surrounding Johnny Manziel

Some have speculated whether Manziel’s football career is over, and his father has said he fears his 23-year-old son will not live to 24 if he does not receive help for substance abuse.

Miller was suspended for the first six games of the 2013 season for violating the NFL’s drug policy. Though his mistakes were never considered as grave as Manziel’s, Miller still empathized with his fellow Texas A&M alumnus. 

“My heart goes out to you buddy,” Miller said, according to Mike Klis of 9 News Denver. “Come on, let’s get it right. Gig em.”

• Get SI’s Denver Broncos Super Bowl 50 commemorative magazine package

Miller led the Denver defense with 2.5 sacks and six tackles in the Broncos’ 24–10 win over the Panthers for the Super Bowl title.

- Erin Flynn