Cleveland Browns Johnny Manziel Rumors: Bengals Defensive Coordinator says Johnny Football needs to play like Drew Brees

Cleveland Browns Johnny Manziel might have more success in the NFL if he tried to play more like Drew Brees, Paul Guenther, the defensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals, suggested.

Guenther utilized a defense that was similar to LSU's defense when LSU played against Manziel and Texas A&M in the Bengals vs. Browns game. The strategy sealed the edge and forced the quarterback to stay in the pocket, which Manziel had difficulty with. Despite his relatively smaller frame, Guenther believes that any quarterback can learn how to throw effectively from the pocket.

"Drew Brees did it," Guenther said. "I know Drew is a little bit thicker than Johnny but about the same height. ... I don't see any reason why he can't do it up there. [Manziel] was such a high-profile guy out of college and everyone expected what he did at Texas A&M, but it's a man's game, it's a lot different, and it takes time. You have to take your lumps a little bit."

Manziel is 6'0" and 210 pounds and Brees is 6'0" and 209 pounds.

Guenther added, "Honestly, I think the kid needs more time.... I think he has good feet, is obviously a threat to run it, and I think in the right system he can be a good player. There was so much expected in his first game, and maybe some of that was self-warranted, but it was so much from the fan base that you have to let him make mistakes."

Manziel made his debut against the Bengals in Dec. 14. He threw two interceptions and was sacked three times.

Manziel is currently the Browns' back up quarterback behind veteran Josh McCown.