Where Johnny Manziel Should Go Vs. Where He Might Go

Nov 30, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) walks off the field after the game against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Ravens won 33-27. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

One of the hot topics of the past month has been the future status of quarterback Johnny Manziel.

The former 1st round pick has squandered numerous opportunities to hold down the starting job for the Cleveland Browns, both due to his play on the field and his behavior off it.  Most recently it involved going to a party, being caught on video and then lying to the team about it.  A decision that has gotten him benched in favor of recent free agent pickup Austin Davis.

This in turn has led to rampant rumors that Cleveland intends to move on from Manziel at some point next year, either via trade or outright cut.  Of course speculation has already begun on where the young quarterback could land, with the Dallas Cowboys being a primary location.  That is obvious given the Tony Romo situation and the fact Jerry Jones was notably interested a year ago in taking Manziel before he was convinced to select Zack Martin instead.

So what about the team where he probably should end up?  The teams that not only might want him but could actually get the most out of his talent and turn him into a legitimate professional quarterback.  If he gets proper advice, these are the teams he should consider.

Arizona Cardinals

What Manziel needs most is stability.  He needs an environment where the focus won’t be entirely on him and a coaching staff that has experience with developing quarterbacks.  Bruce Arians and the Arizona Cardinals qualify.  The team is not a mainstream media center by any stretch and have a head coach who is notorious for his no-nonsense style with players who aren’t committed.

He’s also noted for his ability to teach quarterbacks.  What he’s done with Carson Palmer is a testament to that.  They are a team that can afford to be patient with Manziel.

Kansas City Chiefs

The same can be said for the Kansas City Chiefs.  They still have Alex Smith in place.  However, few coaches love to collect quarterbacks like Andy Reid.  Why?  He’s really good with them.

The veteran head coach has revived the careers of several in the past, and elevated others who had failed elsewhere.  He knows how they think, and with the limited controversy on a team filled with leaders, it’s the type of structure Manziel could use.

Pittsburgh Steelers

This season has taught the Pittsburgh Steelers that Ben Roethlisberger may not be the invincible man of steel he seemed to be for so many years.  He’s approaching his mid-30s with a body that has absorbed the injuries of a 60-year old.  How much time could he have left before it all starts to catch up to him?

The team needs to consider a long-term solution and given their strong front office and coaching staff, it could be a place where Manziel can learn from one of the best without the pressure of having to play right away.