CFL To Allow Johnny Manziel To Join In 2018

The CFL has announced that it will approve a contract for Johnny Manziel to play in 2018. However, the approval is conditional and Manziel must meet certain requirements in order to take the field for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.Johnny Manziel

[The eligibility process] has included an ongoing assessment by an independent expert on the issue of violence against women, a review by legal counsel, and an in-person interview of Mr. Manziel conducted by the commissioner,” Canadian Football League Commissioner Randy Ambrosie said in a statement. “As well, Mr. Manziel has been required to meet a number of conditions set by the league. As a result of this process, the Commissioner has now informed Mr. Manziel and the Tiger-Cats he is prepared to approve a contract for Mr. Manziel should one be negotiated. “The process that led to this decision does, however, continue. Mr. Manziel has been informed he must continue to meet a number of conditions in order to remain eligible. These conditions, while extensive and exacting, remain confidential.”

Rumors of Manziel taking his talents north of the border have been circulating for more than a year. However, the CFL has declined to get into business with Manziel given his ugly off-the-field behavior, including accusations of domestic violence. Now that he has satisfied his legal requirements here in the United States, Manziel may try to resurrect his career north of the border.

Manziel, 26, has not played in the NFL since the 2015 season. In eight career starts for the Browns, the former first-round pick completed 57% of his passes for 1,675 yards, seven scores, and seven picks. His overall passer rating was just 74.4. Still, he remains a celebrity in the sport for his incredible performances at Texas A&M as well as the hard partying that derailed his NFL career. If Manziel can demonstrate that he is back on the right track, the CFL may be a springboard for an NFL return.

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