Johnny Manziel knows what it’s like to be a first-round pick with sky-high expectations only to watch it all unravel. The 2014 Browns pick didn’t shy away from calling his NFL career a bust, but if there’s one thing he understands better than most, it’s the weight of fame.
That’s exactly what Shedeur Sanders is dealing with now. Despite being passed over multiple times in the draft, Sanders hasn’t let the spotlight or the setbacks get to him. He’s stayed focused, putting in the work and grinding to prove he belongs.
Manziel, who’s been through the highs and lows of NFL attention, recently shared his thoughts on Sanders’ potential to fit in with the Browns. With Cleveland still searching for a steady QB1, Manziel’s perspective brings an interesting layer to the conversation.
Maybe Shedeur’s path looks different, but it doesn’t mean it’s over. Not if the work keeps speaking louder than the noise.
Manziel On What Led To Shedeur’s Draft Slip
Johnny Manziel doesn’t claim to know exactly why Shedeur Sanders slid in the draft, but he’s got a pretty good hunch. According to the former Browns QB, it likely had more to do with how NFL coaches perceived Shedeur during the pre-draft process than with his actual talent. “NFL coaches for the quarterback position are just like, you know, maybe he’s a little bit too loud at times,” Manziel explained.
He wasn’t calling Shedeur a problem, but he pointed out how image and personality can shape outcomes, especially for quarterbacks. Manziel went on to say that if Shedeur had been more reserved, his draft journey might’ve looked very different. “The quiet guy, you know, the go type of guy who just comes in, it’s kind of under the radar… those guys seem to do a lot better,” he observed.
It’s an interesting take from someone who knows the high-pressure politics of the NFL firsthand. Manziel isn’t saying Shedeur should change who he is. But in a league where perception can outweigh production, his confidence may have rubbed some decision-makers the wrong way. Still, Manziel sees the fire in Sanders and believes his story is just getting started.
Manziel on Shedeur’s chances To Make the Team
When speaking about whether Shedeur Sanders can make it in Cleveland, Johnny Manziel didn’t hesitate. “I think he’ll do well, I really do,” he said. Manziel pointed to Shedeur’s work ethic and passion for football as the biggest reasons for his belief.
“I think the kid works really hard… I think he loves the game.”
That love for the game, according to Manziel, goes deeper than most. Shedeur didn’t just grow up watching football; he lived it. “If you have a guy like that, that loves the game, obviously grown up around it his whole life, you know, I think he’ll be successful.”
Manziel knows that talent without effort isn’t enough in the NFL. The league is tough, and without drive and discipline, even gifted players fall through the cracks.
But in Shedeur’s case, Manziel sees someone with the right mindset. It’s not just about proving people wrong, it’s about loving the grind. And for Cleveland, that might be exactly what they need.
Also Read: Record-Breaking 2025 NFL Draft: Shedeur Sanders’ Draft Fall Has Prime Effects On TV Ratings
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