Who Can Rescue Johnny Manziel From Bust Label?

Apr 19, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel sits in the front row prior to game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Normally it takes more than one season for a player to earn the tag of being a “draft bust” in the NFL.  Somehow quarterback Johnny Manziel has accelerated that process after not only flaming out as starter with the Cleveland Browns, but managing to land himself in rehab and get into a physical altercation off the field after getting out.

Outwardly the Browns insist they aren’t giving up on the 22-year old, but it’s hard to ignore the hints.  Josh McCown, a 35-year old career backup is the unquestioned starter for Cleveland heading into 2015.  That is about as little vote of confidence a former 1st round pick can receive from his team.  For all the hype and brashness, Manziel has been his own worst enemy.  Thus the question must be asked.  Can somebody, anybody pull his career out of the fire before it burns to a crisp?

Here are five coaches and teams that are his best hope and why.

Chip Kelly and Philadelphia Eagles

It’s become clear through the first three years of his tenure that there isn’t a quarterback Chip Kelly won’t touch.  Michael Vick?  Check.  Mark Sanchez?  Yep.  Tim Tebow?  Oh yes.  He’s all about making the bold moves at the most important position and feels his offense can fit anybody.  All he needs is a player with the talent to run it.  Manziel has what Kelly wanted so badly from Marcus Mariota:  special mobility, instinct and the arm to go down the field.  If the Sam Bradford experiment fails, nobody would be surprised if Kelly is on the phone about Manziel shortly after.