Dallas Cowboys: Johnny Manziel willing to play on the practice squad

The Dallas Cowboys nearly drafted quarterback Johnny Manziel in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Now, he’s willing to be a member of their practice squad.

It was only four years ago Dallas Cowboys fans were screaming out the name “Johnny Manziel” when the Texas A&M quarterback fell to America’s Team in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Despite the former Heisman winner being at the top of owner Jerry Jones’ wish list, the Cowboys brass convinced their general manager to select Notre Dame offensive lineman Zack Martin instead.

Martin, as it turns out, might be the Cowboys best all around player and most successful prospect out of that entire draft class. The 27-year old offensive guard has been named to the Pro Bowl every season he’s worn The Star.

Manziel, on the other hand, was drafted by the Cleveland Browns 22nd overall. After two disappointing seasons in Cleveland, the Browns released Manziel due to inconsistency play on the field and several issues off of it. Since then, the former Aggie quarterback’s life has been in a downward spiral. One that included substance abuse.

Yet, as the weeks have turned to months, and the months into years, the intrigue surrounding the now 25-year old quarterback remains high. But instead of the story of a young, brash playmaker under center, Manziel’s tale is now one of a man looking for redemption.

In a recent interview with Good Morning America, Manziel opened up about his off-the-field issues, including his battle with bipolar disorder. With his life in a much better place now, the once promising prospect is attempting to revive his NFL career.

According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Manziel has talked to several league coaches at the NFL Scouting Combine this week about a possible return to the league. Garafolo is reporting that Johnny Football is willing to sign with a team with zero money guaranteed and at the minimum contract amount. Manziel is also reportedly willing to play on the practice squad if need be.

This could be the best, and possibly, last chance for Manziel to land with an NFL team. And why not the Cowboys, a franchise that nearly handed in a card for him during the first round of the draft four years ago?

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Signing Johnny Football for a minimum deal in Dallas is a no-brainer. This is a flier the Cowboys should absolutely take. The jersey sales alone in the State of Texas would make his addition worth the risk. Plus it would add a former first round quarterback to a team that only features Cooper Rush as a backup at the moment. The upside should simply be too great for the Cowboys to pass up.