Johnny Manziel, once a high-profile NFL quarterback whose career was marred by scandals and hard-partying habits, is making a deliberate effort to amend his past.
At 31 years old, the former athlete engaged in a significant conversation with his ex-manager, Maverick Carter, aiming to reconcile and address his tumultuous time with the Cleveland Browns.
This dialogue was featured in an exclusive preview of “The Shop,” where the two met following Manziel’s public apology to Carter and LeBron James on “Club Shay Shay” hosted by Shannon Sharpe back in February.
During their candid conversation, Manziel expressed his newfound appreciation and gratitude for the efforts made by Carter, James, and their team during his earlier career. “I have an appreciation and gratitude for all that you guys tried to do and what we did,” Manziel reflected, acknowledging the positive impacts they had on his life despite his struggles at the time.
Manziel had originally signed with Carter and James’ LRMR marketing and branding company in early 2014, just before being drafted by the Browns.
During this period, LeBron James had just returned to the Cavaliers, and Manziel was frequently seen around Cleveland, often indulging in reckless behavior. Carter, reflecting on those days, shared that he was less concerned about Manziel’s sports career and more about his wellbeing, emphasizing the gravity of his risky lifestyle. “It shifted from, ‘Get Johnny to his next contract, and help him be a great quarterback,’ to ‘just not let this guy die,’” Carter revealed.
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Manziel, recounting his earlier lifestyle, likened his experiences to a plot from the HBO series “Ballers,” describing how he lived extravagantly without regard for his professional responsibilities. “I was rolling around the city in $300,000 to $400,000 cars absolutely being a menace in the city of Cleveland,” he admitted, highlighting his detachment from his role within the Browns.
The conversation took place on “The Shop,” a platform known for facilitating open and unfiltered discussions. Paul Rivera, co-creator and co-host of the show, noted the importance of such dialogues in providing a safe space for honesty and reflection.
He commended Manziel for his courage in speaking his truth and reflecting on his personal growth.
Manziel also discussed how a recent visit to UCLA’s pro day reignited his passion for football, as he experienced the thrill of handling an NFL football once again.
Despite his past, he is now focusing on his physical health and exploring life’s new opportunities, humorously noting that he can only play so much golf.
In his personal life, Manziel seems to have found happiness with model Josie Canseco, as evidenced by social media photos of the couple at the StageCoach country music festival.
This in-depth and heartfelt exchange between Manziel and Carter will be available for viewers on “The Shop,” set to premiere on June 20 on the show’s official YouTube channel, offering an intimate look into Manziel’s journey towards redemption and self-improvement.
