NFL News: Johnny Manziel Enters Rehab

Cleveland Browns quarterback prospect Johnny Manziel has entered rehab on Wednesday to finally address personal issues that has affected his performance with the team in his first year in the league.

Brad Beckworth, an adviser to the player who was known as “Johnny Football” in college confirmed the report in the team’s website.

"Johnny knows there are areas in which he needs to improve in order to be a better family member, friend and teammate, and he thought the offseason was the right time to take this step," Beckworth, who's is also considered a friend of Manziel and his family, said in a statement at clevelandbrowns.com. "On behalf of Johnny and his family, we're asking for privacy until he rejoins the team in Cleveland.”

According to unnamed sources in an ESPN.com article, Manziel will spend time in the rehab for weeks and his stay there will depend on the doctor’s decision. Officials from the Browns franchise were happy with Manziel’s decision to enter rehab and supports the move.

"We respect Johnny's initiative in this decision and will fully support him throughout this process. Our players' health and well-being will always be of the utmost importance to the Cleveland Browns," Browns General Manager Ray Farmer said in a team statement. "We continually strive to create a supportive environment and provide the appropriate resources, with our foremost focus being on the individual and not just the football player. Johnny's privacy will be respected by us during this very important period and we hope that others will do the same.”

Media outlets and NFL observes calls the decision as one of the best moves in Manziel’s career. Manziel, who played in just five games in his rookie year in Cleveland, is known more for his off-field activities than on the field. In late December, Manziel was fined by the team for being late on a treatment schedule for his injured hamstring. According to reports, the night before Manziel threw a party for his friends including Browns teammates.

Manziel finished with 175 passing yards on 18-of-35 passes (51.4%) for the season.

Email j.gloria@IBTimes.com.au to contact author of this article.