Johnny Manziel News: Rookie QB Finally Gets His Chance To Start In Game, ‘I'm Very Appreciative Of The Opportunity’ [VIDEO]
Johnny Manziel is taking the field Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals as the starting quarterback.
On Tuesday afternoon, USA Today reported that Manziel got the go ahead to be the starting quarterback for this upcoming Sunday's game.
Manziel will replace Brian Hoyer as the Cleveland Browns starting quarterback, the Browns announced Tuesday afternoon in an email.
In the statement Coach Mike Pettine said, "This decision is really not about Brian Hoyer or Johnny Manziel, it is about the Cleveland Browns."
He added that the decisions made are always "in the best interest of the team."
"Johnny has worked very hard to earn this opportunity and it will be very important for every member of the offense to elevate their play for us to obtain our desired result," Pettine said.
The rookie quarterback is being given a chance to revive the team's playoff hopes.
Manziel released a statement too about getting to start. He said, "I'm very appreciative of the opportunity that Coach Pettine and the coaching staff have given me to be the starter on Sunday."
The rookie added, "I've tried to spend my entire season learning what it takes to become a pro and it's been great to watch Brian because he knows what it takes. I've prepared every week to be ready to help the team however possible and my focus has been on improving every day. I'm very excited to get out on the field with my teammates on Sunday and to have the opportunity to make the Dawg Pound proud."
Manziel scored his first professional touchdown on Nov. 30 so that magic on the field could come to life again when he starts this Sunday.
