Johnny Manziel to start for Browns against Bengals
CLEVELAND — With starting quarterback Josh McCown unable to play because of a painful rib injury, Johnny Manziel will start for the Cleveland Browns on Thursday night against the Cincinnati Bengals, who treated him so rudely as a rookie on the road last year and now get him on their home turf.
In his first NFL start last season, Manziel was chased, sacked, intercepted and taunted by the Bengals in a 30-0 embarrassment.
McCown was unable to practice Tuesday night because of his ribs — and sore shoulder — and Browns coach Mike Pettine announced the decision to start Manziel on Wednesday before the team left for Cincinnati.
The 2012 Heisman Trophy winner, who is also being investigated by the NFL for a recent domestic dispute, will be able to show a prime-time TV audience his improvement since his rocky rookie season.
The Browns have been pleased with Manziel’s dedication and progress following a rough first year, which was followed by a lengthy stay in a rehab facility for an unspecified problem.
St. Louis backup running back Trey Watts has been suspended indefinitely for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.