While desperate, Mike Maccagnan and the New York Jets even considering troubled Johnny Manziel is a giant waste of time.
He was brash, exciting and full of youthful spirit. The same vigor with how he attacked his quarterback duties carried over to his extracurricular ventures — such activities that could be “Joe Namath endearing” if handled correctly.The Cleveland Browns decided to gamble on the 2012 Heisman Trophy recipient with the 22nd pick of the 2014 NFL Draft. They simply couldn’t resist the urge, and, quite frankly, were on the same boat many NFL scouts had landed on when evaluating the kid who seemed to live and breathe football.
Unfortunately, Johnny Manziel has been nothing but a disaster.
The problem hasn’t been talent. Rather, his legendary off-the-field duties from his days at Texas A&M have carried over on a professional level, both literally and figuratively.
After one tweet, the chatter has begun.
No lie.. I was a douche in 2016 I'm just trying to be a good PERSON again#LostInTheSauce
— Johnny Manziel (@JManziel2) January 19, 2017
How often does a first-round QB become available?
This leads us to the quarterback-starved New York Jets. Not only have fans mentioned a possible link, but Rich Cimini of ESPN New York has as well.
what is the chance the jets take a gamble on Manziel? #jetsmail
— Mike Gulino (@mgulino95) January 20, 2017
While the title suggests Johnny Football, the writer says all the right things.
“No. No. No. No. No.”
Admittedly, there has to be at least a little intrigue. While not blessed with incredible arm talent, Manziel’s sense and awareness for the game he plays is off the charts. He’s always showcased that magic that could appeal evaluators and decision-makers.
Having said that, these Jets shouldn’t even think about it.
First off, this personnel base isn’t ready-made for a QB. The offensive line is horrid and the defense needs many parts. While a QB is a necessary evil — especially in this league — it can’t be the only priority.
Secondly, and most importantly, this organization needs to steer clear of troublemakers.
I, for one, was a huge believer in Manziel coming out. His unique ability in and outside the pocket could have worked at the professional level if he dedicated himself to his craft.
He didn’t. Instead, he threw away his craft and decided to party like the rockstar he used to be. This is all the information I need when evaluating the kid moving forward.
If Mike Maccagnan wastes one minute thinking about a possible Manziel reclamation project, he’s barking up the wrong tree.
What the Jets need to do is draft safe, character-filled players through the draft starting from the trenches out. Character counts and Johnny Manziel needs to prove it prior to any shot at NFL glory.
