Johnny Manziel had the opportunity to start for the remainder of the season, but the Cleveland Browns quarterback lost the chance after getting involved in another off-field controversy.
Manziel, the 22nd overall pick in the 2015 NFL, was named starter for the remainder of the season late last month, but the former Texas A&M standout was demoted and became the No. 3 QB after he was seen in a video partying and holding an alcohol.
The recent demotion stirred speculation that the Browns and Manziel will part ways in the offseason. If the Browns decide to keep him, Manziel could still eventually ask for a way out. But according to Browns coach Mike Pettine, Manziel is not showing any signs of desire to leave Cleveland after the season.
"I'll keep it private, but we've had very good discussions about what's happened, what did happen and the future," Pettine told reporters. "I see no indication of that."
Manziel, who has completed 59.4 percent of his passes for 933 yards with five touchdowns this season, got another chance to barge into the starting lineup after Josh McCown went down with a season-ending collarbone injury.
However, Pettine announced on Wednesday that Austin Davis will start at quarterback over Manziel. Davis substituted for McCown during their 33-27 loss to the Baltimore Ravens on Monday, where he threw 7-of-10 for 77 yards, including a crucial touchdown.
"Austin took advantage of his opportunity on Monday night," Pettine added. "He was prepared, played well and put us in position to win. He's been great in the quarterback room all season and he has earned the right to start on Sunday. We expect him to play well."
Manziel is serving punishment for his undesirable behavior, but Pettine insisted that the recent incident did not affect his decision to start Davis instead of the former first-round pick. He reiterated that all is not lost for Manziel because he could still get a chance to start again in their remaining games this year.
"It's more about Austin and seeing what he can do than it is about length of punishment," Pettine continued. "These are two players that we both want to see play, is the bottom line. I don't want to declare, 'Hey, this is what it's going to be from here on out.' These are two young quarterbacks that have upside."
The Browns, who are currently at the cellar of the AFC North standings with their 2-9 card, will go up against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday at First Energy Stadium.
