Texas A&M’s Johnny Manziel may bolt for the NFL after 2013 season (Video)
Texas A&M quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel has set his sights on the NFL in 2014.
In an interview Sunday with ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit, Manziel left open the possibility of declaring for the 2014 NFL draft — so the upcoming 2013 college football season could be Manziel’s last.
“You never know how things might play out,” Manziel said. “If an opportunity comes to go to the NFL, you have to look at that just like you have to look at everything.”
Manziel is now a redshirt sophomore at Texas A&M. So he would be able to complete his mandatory three years in college before the 2014 NFL draft.
“For me, the NFL is the thing that’s always been, kind of somewhat like the Heisman, it’s been a dream as a kid to be able to have an opportunity to even be talked about being able to play in the NFL,” Manziel said. “For me I’m enjoying my time here for sure and if that comes calling, just like anybody else, the decision will have to be made. I’m very happy here and very happy with Coach (Kevin) Sumlin and in college football. I love it.”
The Aggies’ spring practice is already underway.
Just two months ago, Manziel led Texas A&M to a 41-13 victory over Oklahoma in the Cotton Bowl. Add the Heisman Trophy to the mix and life has changed dramatically for the young star.
“If somebody wants to come up to me and freak out, I don’t get it,” Manziel said. I don’t understand it. We did a lot of great things. I’ve been so blessed to have the done the things I did individually. For me, I don’t see it that way. I still see myself as young, the same guy I was before I ever won the Heisman. Hopefully my friends still feel I’m the same way. I just want people to know I’m still the same person I’ve always been.”
And it looks like Manziel’s life will change even more after the 2013 college football season.
No doubt about his skills but there is an element missing from the package. At this point he would best defer NFL until he has matured a little more or he will be painfully disappointed. If his coach shores up the defense and gains another hot receiver it looks like a legitimate chance of NC next season. Good luck to the Aggies!
stay in school kids.