Johnny Manziel Biography: Johnathan Paul Manziel born December 6, 1992, and famously nicknamed “Johnny Football”, is a former American professional quarterback. He played two seasons in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns and later joined the Canadian Football League (CFL), playing for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Montreal Alouettes in 2018. Manziel also briefly played in the Alliance of American Football (AAF) for the Memphis Express in 2019 and participated in Fan Controlled Football from 2021 to 2022. Highly recruited as a dual-threat quarterback out of high school, Manziel made his college debut as a redshirt freshman for the Texas A&M Aggies in 2012, during the team’s first year in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) under head coach Kevin Sumlin’s Air Raid offense. He broke numerous NCAA and SEC records, becoming the first freshman.
Johnny Manziel Biography
According to estimates, Johnny Manziel’s net worth in 2023 falls between $1 million and $6 million. His financial standing is largely influenced by factors such as his NFL signing bonus, player salary, and various endorsement deals. While some believed he had the potential to build a $100 million career, Manziel ultimately earned about $7.7 million in salary and $10 million from endorsements during his time in the NFL. Following the release of the Netflix sports documentary, Untold: Johnny Football, viewers have been curious about how much Manziel is worth today after his departure from the NFL. The documentary explores his meteoric rise to fame as a freshman quarterback at Texas A&M and the rapid decline that followed after being drafted by the Cleveland Browns. Manziel quickly became a household name in college football, but his NFL career didn’t match the early promise he showed on the field.
Johnny Manziel Biography 2025 Details
Born: | December 6, 1992 (age 32) Tyler, Texas, U.S. |
Height: | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
Weight: | 210 lb (95 kg) |
High school: | Tivy (Kerrville, Texas) |
College: | Texas A&M (2011–2013) |
NFL draft: | 2014: 1st round, 22nd pick |
Category | Football Biographies |
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About Johnny Manziel
Johnathan Paul Manziel, nicknamed “Johnny Football”, is an American former professional football quarterback who played two seasons with the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League.
Johnny Manziel Wiki
- Born: 6 December 1992 (age 32 years), Tyler, Texas, United States
- Height: 83 m
- Number: 2 (Texas A&M Aggies football / Quarterback) ·
- Dates joined: 2021 (FCF Zappers) ·
- Education: Texas A&M University (2011–2013), Tivy High School (2007–2011), Tivy High School
- Spouse: Breana Tiesi (m. 2018–2021)
- Parents: Michelle Manziel, Paul Manziel
Early Life
Johnny Manziel was born in Tyler, Texas, to Michelle (née Liberato) and Paul Manziel, and has a younger sister named Meri. His paternal great-great-grandfather, Joseph, emigrated from Lebanon to Louisiana in 1907. On his mother’s side, he has Italian heritage.
From a young age, Manziel was involved in several sports, including football, baseball, basketball, and golf. He eventually concentrated on football and baseball at Tivy High School in Kerrville, Texas. His athletic performance in football earned him comparisons to stars like Brett Favre, Michael Vick, and Drew Brees, with some calling him a “folk hero” in Texas high school football.
High School Career
Manziel played all four years of high school football at Tivy. He started on the freshman team before moving up to varsity as a receiver late in his first season. During his sophomore year, he started at receiver but took over at quarterback by the fourth game, ending the season with over 1,100 passing yards, 800 rushing yards, 400 receiving yards, and 28 total touchdowns.
As a junior, Manziel became the full-time starting quarterback, throwing for 2,903 yards, rushing for 1,544 yards, and catching passes for 152 yards. He accounted for 55 touchdowns that season and was named All-San Antonio Area Offensive Player of the Year and District 27-4A MVP.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Johnathan Paul Manziel
- Date of Birth: December 6, 1992
- Place of Birth: Tyler, Texas, USA
- Nationality: American
- Education: Tivy High School (Kerrville, TX), Texas A&M University
- Relationship Status: Currently dating model Josie Canseco
- Former Spouse: Bre Tiesi (2018–2021)
- Children: None
- Net Worth: Approximately $1 million (as of 2024)
Rise to Fame: College Career
Manziel’s college career at Texas A&M is the stuff of legend. In 2012, as a redshirt freshman, he captured national attention by becoming the first freshman ever to win the Heisman Trophy. His dynamic playing style—a potent mix of passing and rushing—electrified fans and powered the Aggies to a commanding 41–13 win over Oklahoma in the 2013 Cotton Bowl Classic.
NFL Career and Challenges
Selected 22nd overall by the Cleveland Browns in the 2014 NFL Draft, Manziel entered the NFL amid sky-high expectations. Though he showed occasional flashes of brilliance, his time in the league was short-lived. Struggles with consistency on the field and a series of off-field controversies led to his release after just two seasons.
Notable Achievements
- 2012 Heisman Trophy Winner
- 2013 Cotton Bowl Classic MVP
- First freshman to ever win the Heisman Trophy
- Renowned for his dual-threat quarterbacking style
Life After Football
By 2024, Manziel had stepped away from professional football and redirected his focus toward personal growth. Open about his battles with mental health and substance abuse, he has been working on rebuilding his life. He’s made appearances in the media world, including podcasting and reality TV—most notably appearing on Selling Sunset with ex-wife Bre Tiesi.
Personal Life
Manziel’s personal life has often made headlines. He married model and actress Bre Tiesi in 2018, but the couple separated a year later and finalized their divorce in 2021. In April 2025, he was seen publicly with model Josie Canseco, confirming a new relationship.
Fun Facts
- Manziel was a household name during his college years and earned the nickname “Johnny Football.”
- He was known for his exciting, improvisational playing style.
- His career arc is frequently cited in discussions around fame, pressure, and personal accountability.
Legacy and Charitable Efforts
Though controversies have clouded his professional legacy, Manziel has expressed interest in giving back and advocating for mental health awareness. His impact on college football remains significant, with fans still remembering his record-breaking performances.
Looking Ahead
While he hasn’t officially pursued coaching, Manziel has mentioned a possible future in college football mentorship. His journey serves as a cultural touchstone—a reminder of the highs and lows that come with life in the spotlight, and the importance of resilience and growth.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Despite setbacks, Manziel has maintained a modest public lifestyle. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is around $1 million, derived from his NFL earnings, endorsements, and current media ventures. He continues to engage with fans and remains a recognizable figure in sports and entertainment circles.
FAQs
What was Johnny Manziel’s college football career like?
Johnny Manziel’s college career at Texas A&M was extraordinary. He made history in 2012 by becoming the first freshman ever to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy. His exciting dual-threat quarterbacking style, which combined both passing and rushing abilities, led the Aggies to a memorable 41–13 victory over Oklahoma in the 2013 Cotton Bowl Classic.
Why did Johnny Manziel’s NFL career not work out?
Although Johnny Manziel had flashes of brilliance in the NFL, his professional career was plagued by inconsistency and off-field controversies. After being selected 22nd overall by the Cleveland Browns in the 2014 NFL Draft, his struggles with substance abuse and personal issues ultimately led to his release after only two seasons.
What is Johnny Manziel’s net worth?
As of 2024, Johnny Manziel’s net worth is estimated at $1 million. His earnings come from his brief NFL career, endorsement deals, and various media ventures, including podcasting and appearances on reality TV shows.
What is Johnny Manziel doing now?
Since stepping away from professional football, Johnny Manziel has focused on personal growth and recovery. He has been candid about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse. Additionally, he has ventured into the media world, hosting a podcast and making appearances on reality television, such as Selling Sunset.
Who is Johnny Manziel dating?
As of 2024, Johnny Manziel is in a relationship with model Josie Canseco. The two have been publicly seen together, including at a country music festival, sharing moments on social media.
What are Johnny Manziel’s charitable efforts?
While Johnny Manziel’s career has been overshadowed by controversy, he has expressed a desire to give back to the community. Though specific charitable activities are not detailed, he has spoken about using his platform to advocate for mental health awareness and potentially mentoring young athletes in the future.