As the first picks in the 2014 NFL draft passed and Johnny Manziel remained on the board, rumors started swirling about just how far the Texas A&M quarterback would fall.
The Cleveland Browns quickly put an end to those rumors, but not without some extra urging from Johnny Football himself.
During a radio interview with ESPN Arkansas 96.3, Cleveland Browns quarterbacks coach Dowell Loggains told the show that Manziel sent him a text message midway through the first round.
“I wish you guys would come get me,” the text read. “Hurry up and draft me because I want to wreck this league together.”
The Browns obliged, trading up to the 22nd overall pick to draft the dynamic Texas A&M quarterback. According to Loggains, Manziel’s text played a major role in the Browns’ decision to bring him to Cleveland.
“When I got that text, I forwarded it to the owner (Jimmy Haslam) and to the head coach (Mike Pettine),” Loggains said. “I’m like, ‘This guy wants to be here. He wants to be part of it.’ As soon as that happened, Mr. Haslam said, ‘Pull the trigger. We’re trading up to go get this guy.'”
Loggains also mentioned that the Browns were close to trading with the Tennessee Titans for the 11th pick and the Dallas Cowboys for the 16th pick, as both teams reportedly had interest in drafting Manziel.
Loggains’ quarterback group will be under intense scrutiny this season, as Manziel’s chances of getting on the playing field are by no means secure. Haslam reiterated to reporters Monday that Manziel is “not the starter” and will play a backup role behind quarterback Brian Hoyer.
