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AAF: Johnny Manziel is finally on a team that fits

By Matthew Bartlett

PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 15: Johnny Manziel #2 of the Cleveland Browns warms up before the start of the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on November 15, 2015 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 15: Johnny Manziel #2 of the Cleveland Browns warms up before the start of the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on November 15, 2015 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images) /
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Johnny Manziel has returned to the states, signing with the Memphis Express of the Alliance of American Football to continue his dreams of becoming a professional quarterback.

It’s been a long road for Johnny Manziel. The former Texas A&M and Cleveland Browns starter spent the better part of last year north of the border quarterbacking two different CFL franchises. His contract was terminated by the league earlier this year, making the 26-year old quarterback a free agent once again.

After a few weeks to gather himself, Manziel has found a home in the Alliance of American Football. For Manziel, who’s made his hopes of an NFL comeback well know, the chance to play in the fledgling developmental league could finally be a situation where he’s in the right place at the right time.

The San Antonio Commanders owned Manziel’s rights by virtue of his collegiate ties to Texas, but they passed on signing him, allowing the Memphis Express to claim him on waivers. They recently benched Christian Hackenberg for ineffectiveness before backup Zach Mettenberger was injured during his first start. The team rolled out Brandon Silvers in his place.

Away from the awkward rules of the CFL, Manziel will have the opportunity to play American football with others seeking the same dream of returning to the big stage. Former NFL head coach Mike Singletary leads the Express and will be more than happy to devote time into the former college star who’s taken a long and winding road back to the professional ranks.

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There’s no guarantee Manziel will succeed here. He’s certainly had more than his fair share of chances. But at last, on American soil with an NFL head coach and a host of near NFL-caliber players, Manziel has the best chance that he’s had in a long while.