The relationship between the Canadian Football League and the Heisman Trophy winner has officially ended.
CFL commissioner, Randy Ambrosie, announced in Vancouver that Johnny Manziel violated the terms of their agreement making him ineligible to play for Montreal. In his past, he’s been charged with domestic assault and even sought help for substance abuse back in 2016. However, since the exact clauses were not divulged to the public, there’s no concrete knowledge on what exactly Manziel did to get fired. However, Ambrosie described the decision as “best” for everyone.
“We’re trying to do what we believe is in the best interests of the entire league. The conditions we set, we thought were the right ones. Those conditions have been violated and we feel it’s best, and Montreal feels it’s best, to let Johnny move on. And we think it’s best for our league that he do the same. And we wish him well.”
Alouettes General Manager, Kavis Reed, admitted to being disappointed to see their player go but understands the rules are the rules.
Johnny seemed to take the news well after posting his own announcement on Twitter.
“I want to thank Coach Sherman, my teammates, and the CFL fans. My time there reestablished my love for the game of football and the work that goes into it. I look forward to exploring new options within the United States.”
The 26-year-old also told Barstool Sports’ Comeback SZN podcast he plans to stay focused on football with all the different playing options offered, like the Alliance of American Football or the XFL.
“Me and E.B. [agent Erik Burkhardt] are fully committed to playing ball and trying to get into the best situation possible and that’s what it’s all about.”
