Titans among teams to see Manziel throw
The Titans were among 13 NFL teams that reportedly had a scout on hand to see Johnny Manziel throw at the University of San Diego’s Pro Day on Thursday.
But they have no immediate plans to back up their Heisman-winning quarterback with a Heisman-winning quarterback. It was business as usual for the diligent Titans, who were there to assess the school’s draft prospects, according to an NFL source.
Manziel, 25, hasn’t played football in two years since the end of his tumultuous tenure with the Browns. But the former Texas A&M star is reportedly sober, taking medication for bipolar disorder and willing to play for the veterans’ minimum, with no guaranteed money, in an effort to resurrect his career.
Manziel has reportedly been working out in San Diego with quarterback coach George Whitfield.
He tweeted that USD draft prospects Justin Priest and Ross Dwelley asked him to throw for them at the school’s pro day, and he obliged.
Manziel is scheduled to participate in the Spring League developmental football program from March 28 to April 15 in Austin, Texas. His rights are owned by the CFL’s Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
Former Titans quarterback Zach Mettenberger is also planning to play in the Spring League, according to ProFootballTalk. Mettenberger, a sixthround draft pick in 2014, was winless in 10 games as a starter in two seasons with the Titans.
The Titans are searching for a veteran backup quarterback for Marcus Mariota after releasing Matt Cassel before the start of free agency. Mariota has yet to play a full 16-game schedule, because of injuries, in any of his first three NFL seasons.
Chad Henne and Blaine Gabbert have visited Tennessee, but Henne has since signed with the Chiefs. Brandon Weeden, who joined the Titans midway through last season, remains a possibility to re-sign with the team.
Reach Jason Wolf at jwolf@tennessean.com and follow him on Twitter at @JasonWolf and on Instagram and Snapchat at TitansBeat.