Johnny Manziel made news Saturday morning by announcing his return to pro football. The 2012 Heisman winner and former first-round Cleveland Browns draft pick signed a pro contract with the Canadian Football League (CFL).
Made the decision today to sign my contract with the CFL and further my football career after a long break. Very grateful for everyone thats been supporting me along the way. I believe this is the best opportunity for me moving forward and Im eager for what the future holds.
— Johnny Manziel (@JManziel2) May 19, 2018
Manziel's tweet did not clarify the team that signed him, but it's the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. The organization had worked him out before and had previously held his CFL rights. They finally signed him after they first worked him out last August.
It's Manziel's return to professional football since he last played for the Cleveland Browns in the 2015 season. The Browns released him in March 2016 after some behavioral problems off the field. Manziel had announced his comeback campaign and even played in The Spring League earlier this year, though that is a non-paying developmental league.
Manziel seems earnest about his comeback efforts. He ultimately wants an NFL return but could do well up north given his skill set and the unique rules of Canadian football.
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats begin their 2018 season by hosting the reigning Grey Cup champion Toronto Argonauts at Tim Hortons Field on June 1.
Source: @JManziel2
