Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel begins to prepare for possible start

Johnny Manziel made an appearance for Cleveland much earlier than expected Sunday, after starter Josh McCown sustained a concussion in the first quarter against the New York Jets.

McCown was hurt in the 31-10 defeat while trying to run up the middle for a touchdown; he dived near the goal line and absorbed a hit that sent him helicoptering John Elway-style. Unlike Elway in that classic Super Bowl play, McCown fumbled before hitting the ground.

Manziel had an early highlight, finding Travis Benjamin for a 54-yard touchdown. It was Manziel’s first NFL touchdown pass.

The rest of the game didn’t go so well for the former Heisman Trophy winner, who missed much of training camp with elbow problems. Manziel had three turnovers in the second half — an interception and two fumbles — and completed 13 of 24 passes for 182 yards in the game.

“Obviously, the second half leaves a bitter taste in your mouth,” Manziel said. “We’ll see what happens this next week.”

Browns Coach Mike Pettine said McCown is following the NFL concussion protocol and his status will be determined as the week unfolds. In the meantime, Manziel is ready to prepare for a start next week when Cleveland plays host to Heisman Trophy winner Marcus Mariota at the Tennessee Titans.

“We’ll see what Josh’s status is,” Manziel said. “For me, this week is being ready to go, getting in with those guys and get a chance to mesh with them.”

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