Browns Pro Bowler shades Johnny Manziel during his retirement announcement

June 11, 2026 - 12:16

The Cleveland Browns have had their share of quarterback drama over the years, and one of the most memorable chapters involved Johnny Manziel. The former Texas A&M standout was taken by the Browns in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, but his time in Cleveland was short and chaotic. Now, years later, a current Browns Pro Bowler has used Manziel's retirement announcement to throw some shade his way.

Manziel, who last played in the now-defunct Fan Controlled Football league in 2022, recently confirmed his retirement from professional football. He told a Texas radio station that he is done playing and ready to move on with his life. But his announcement did not go unnoticed by Browns defensive end Myles Garrett. The four-time Pro Bowler took to social media with a blunt response, saying that Manziel "never really showed up" during his time in Cleveland.

Garrett's comment was a direct jab at Manziel's infamous reputation for partying and missing team obligations. The quarterback played just two seasons with the Browns, starting eight games and throwing seven touchdowns against seven interceptions. His off-field antics, including a stint in rehab and legal troubles, made him a cautionary tale in the NFL. Meanwhile, Garrett has become the face of the Browns defense, winning Defensive Player of the Year in 2023 and pushing the team to playoff contention.

The jab from Garrett is not surprising given the stark contrast between the two players' careers. Manziel's retirement closes a chapter that never quite lived up to the hype, while Garrett continues to build a legacy in Cleveland. The Browns have long since moved on from the Manziel era, but his name still stirs up strong feelings among those who remember the disappointment.