Johnny Manziel has been effectively banned from the CFL, opening the doors for the former Texas A&M quarterback to play professionally in the United States.
The life and times of Johnny Manziel are always flowing with drama and intrigue. For reasons yet undisclosed to the national media, Manziel has been released from the Montreal Alouettes and barred from play in the Canadian Football League.
Manziel seemed to take the high road, penning a thoughtful and respectful thank you to his supporters up North. The thank you, although sincere, ends with one extremely telling statement: “I look forward to exploring new options within the United States.”
Since no NFL team was willing to take a risk on Manziel prior to his brief stint in Canada, there won’t be any new discussions in the NFL concerning his services foreseeable future. Luckily for Manziel, there are a growing number of options outside of the NFL which could be suitors for his services.
Manziel is no stranger to fledgling pro football concepts. He played in the Spring League before heading to the CFL. Now there are more options than ever before. Assuming no news too disparaging comes out concerning his CFL release, he’ll be a hot commodity for the XFL and the newly instituted Alliance of American Football.
If Manziel does go to the AAF, currently in season, their assignment process would send him to the San Antonio Commanders. There, he’d team up with a host of other Aggies like Shaan Washington, Trey Williams and Cam Clear.
He’d have to pay his dues and reprove his earnestness to another coaching staff and another locker room. If Manziel can make a home in San Antonio the release from the CFL might turn out to be a blessing in disguise.