The future of Johnny Manziel's career with the Cleveland Browns likely depends on someone who doesn't even work for the team yet. The Browns are searching for a new offensive coordinator after they granted Kyle Shanahan's request for a release. Unfortunately, this will be their sixth OC in as many years, and whoever gets the job will have to decide if Manziel is worth the time.
"No doubt, Johnny Manziel will be a prominent topic at these meetings - what their plan is for Manziel, how to make him better, play to strengths (mobility, arm strength) and mask on-field weaknesses (fitting into language-heavy NFL offense, decisiveness)," ESPN's Jeremy Fowler wrote.
"What potential coordinators say about the talented but maligned quarterback could shape the Browns' long-term views on whether he's the answer in 2015."
The Browns have interviewed Chan Gailey (who is likely heading to the New York Jets) and former Chicago Bears head coach Marc Trestman, among other, for their OC position. Trestman initially had great success with quarterback Jay Cutler in their first year together in Chicago. Although this season unfolded poorly, Trestman's West Coast offense could fit into Manziel's skill set if modified just a bit. The key to such an offense would be creating easy throws on the move and quick reads from the pocket for Manziel.
However, if the majority of candidates are apprehensive of working with Manziel, it could spell the end for him in Cleveland.
Manziel completed 18 of 35 passes (51.4 percent) this season for 175 yards, zero touchdowns and two interceptions. His first career start against the Cincinnati Bengals was a disaster, with the Browns losing 30-0. Manziel finished the season on injured reserve after suffering a hamstring injury against the Carolina Panthers.
