“Johnny Football” On The Edge
Heisman Trophy recipient Johnny Manziel has been under a microscope recently involving a confrontation with his ex-girlfriend, and an alleged substance abuse problem.
Cleveland Browns’ soon-to-be former quarterback has refused psychiatric and chemical dependency treatment offered by his father, Paul. Paul Manziel has been reported as to say that if his son does not get help, he will not live to see his 24th birthday.
Is he open to help?
So far, has been reluctant to admit that he has a problem, denying the allegations that he struck his ex-girlfriend numerous time in Dallas, Texas. He is saying that he is safe and secure, leading the public to believe that this may be just a media storm.
Johnny Manziel showed real promise in his college days with Texas A&M, where he became the first freshman player in NCAA history to pass for over 3,000 yards and rush for over 1,000 in a single season. He broke NCAA Division I FBS and SEC records throughout his time with the Aggies.
Manziel was the 22nd overall draft pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. The Cleveland Browns traded for him after he reportedly sent a text to Browns’ quarterback coach Dowell Loggains that said he wanted to “wreck this league.” This caught head coach Mike Pettine’s attention, convincing him to give “Johnny Football” a shot.
Drug and alcohol addiction is scientifically classified as a mental impairment, effecting approximately 23.2 million people in the United States. It is a deadly affliction that can affect anyone, including a high-caliber NFL quarterback. Johnny Manziel, like so many others, is not immune to this threat.
There is hope
When Manziel decides he wants the help he needs, there are drug and alcohol rehab programs available at his finger-tips. Drug and alcohol dependency is a medical condition, not a crime or moral deficiency. Manziel deserves the treatment that so many others have been able to obtain.
