Johnny Manziel checks into rehab

Cleveland Browns quarterback was often criticised in his rookie season

(Getty Images)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel – otherwise known as Johnny Football – has checked into a rehabilitation facility.

An adviser to the quarterback, Brad Beckworth, told ESPN that Mr Manziel has identified several areas in his life that he would like to improve and he felt that the offseason was the proper time to address those areas.

No information is available on the specific problem Mr Manziel, 22, is addressing, but photos he’s posted on social media present him as a lover of nightlife and he’s earned a reputation in the NFL and in college as a partier.

“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 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.”

After winning the Heisman Trophy – given to college football’s best player – in 2012 for his play at Texas A&M University, Mr Manziel saw his popularity soar, both for his football talent and his off-field antics.

He was drafted in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Browns, but only played in five games during his rookie season, throwing for just 175 yards and no touchdowns. After the season, several of Mr Manziel’s teammates questioned his dedication and commitment to the team.

After the season finished, Mr Manziel pledged to rededicate himself to the game and to the team, prior to checking into rehab.

Follow Payton Guion on Twitter @PaytonGuion.