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Browns' Johnny Manziel struggles on Day 1 of training camp

Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports / Reuters

Training camp did not get off to a good start for Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel.

Working exclusively with the backups, Manziel produced four ugly plays in a row during an 11-on-11 session: he was sacked twice, nearly intercepted, and had a pass batted down at the line of scrimmage.

Manziel showed a lack of confidence, walking a lot with his head down, according to ESPN's Pat McManamon, who was among those in attendance at practice Thursday.

As for incumbent starter Josh McCown, McManamon said he performed generally well, but "did not jump out to the eye."

Head coach Mike Pettine said he liked the command both quarterbacks showed in the huddle and their knowledge of the offense. However, when asked to evaluate the pair, he didn't provide much of an answer.

"It's hard to say," he said.

Pettine told reporters earlier in the week that while McCown will likely open the season as the starter, Manziel could still win the job. Based on his first training camp practice, Manziel has a long way to go before that happens.

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