Saying the Cleveland Browns are a dysfunctional franchise may be a bit of an understatement, but the dysfunction hit a new low with the decision to draft troubled quarterback Johnny Manziel in the 2014 NFL draft.
At least that is what played out on the field, off it, Manziel was an instant money-maker for the team. In fact, his jersey was the best selling jersey of the first quarter of 2014. However, Manziel’s career lasted a whopping two seasons in Cleveland before he was cut earlier this month.
Given his career of just two years in a Browns uniform, there’s a strong chance many who forked over a Benjamin or two for his jersey are likely feeling cheated.
The Cleveland Browns apparently looked in to replicating a jersey buyback program similar to the one the Baltimore Ravens did in the aftermath of Ray Rice’s departure from the team. Unlike the Ravens, the Browns won’t be buying back any of Manziel’s jerseys.
#Browns spokesman said team won't do Johnny Manziel jersey buyback program after some consideration.
— Nate Ulrich (@ByNateUlrich) March 22, 2016
For a team in need of a fresh shot in the arm in the PR department, it appears this is yet another misstep. That’s because plenty of fans who purchased Manziel jerseys are none too happy about the Browns decision.
No buyback for Manziel jersey is the equivalent to "You break it, you buy it" except it's "He breaks, you bought it."
— Steven R. Walker (@Steve_R_Walker) March 22, 2016
https://twitter.com/Nate_Brulport/status/712342269064568832
Then there was this dedicated fan who requested a buyback for just about every first round draft pick in franchise history (1999 and on of course):
https://twitter.com/b_raddv/status/712353276772130816
The other side of the argument? Buyer beware, especially when buying anything associated with the Cleveland Browns.
@TonyGrossi those who bought Manziel jersey responsible for own actions. Any Browns jersey is gamble let alone a rook with off field issues
— Kyle (@TmbstnKyledrvr) March 22, 2016
[MSN]
