Johnny Manziel's journey back to the big leagues took a big stride Thursday as the quarterback worked out in front of NFL scouts at the University of San Diego pro day.
Representatives from 13 teams were on hand as Manziel - showcasing himself for the first time since being on the Cleveland Browns' roster in 2015 - showed elements of his arm strength and athleticism. Manziel attempted 38 passes to a pair of University of San Diego receivers and had only two incompletions, according to ESPN's Eric Williams.
The former Heisman Trophy winner - who will appear in the Spring League next month - did what he could to abate any worries about him falling back into the alcohol abuse and other bad habits that contributed to his early release from the Browns.
"I'm a married man. I'm at home with my wife and my dogs, and I don't have a lot of time after that after doing six-hour training days," Manziel said. "I'm happy with where things are. I think things are going well, and I couldn't ask for a better place to be in my life right now."
Manziel, 25, has been in and out of the public spotlight since being cut by the Browns, and remains well aware that he has a long road ahead in trying to convince teams, fans, and media that he has changed his ways.
"I know I've rubbed people the wrong way," Manziel said. "I know there's still people that still doubt what I'm doing and still doubt where I'm at.
"For me, (I have) spurts in the past of being good. I've spurts in the past of showing promise and looking like I'm on the right path, and when I think I get there, something else happens. That's kind of the pattern that's been there in the last couple years of my life since college. So for me, the key right now is to be consistent and to continue what I'm doing day in and day out."
