Johnny Manziel failed to get a starting job for the Cleveland Browns, but Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin expects the rookie quarterback to play in their upcoming match on Sunday at Heinz Field.
Manziel, who was selected as the 22nd overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, lost to Brian Hoyer in the race for starting QB spot during the offseason, but Tomlin said that they are preparing to face both quarterbacks in week 1.
"We've got a great deal of respect for Johnny Manziel and his talents," Tomlin said via ESPN. "They didn't draft him in the first round to watch. We fully expect them to utilize him in some capacity in this football game."
Manziel had an outstanding showing during the preseason where he completed 30-of-59 passes for 296 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 88 yards. Tomlin said that Manziel could give the Browns a different dimension on offense.
"Obviously Manziel has some unique run skills and capabilities," Tomlin said. "I think they're capable of highlighting that within the framework of their offense. And it's not like Hoyer is immobile. I don't imagine they're going to be drastically different with either guy in there."
Browns coach Mike Pettine previously said the rookie will get a chance to play, and that the team is actually considering using a two-quarterback system.
Tomlin did not comment on the proposed two-QB system, but he said that it won't be hard for any coach to prepare with two quarterbacks of Hoyer and Manziel's caliber.
"I think all of the things they ask Manziel to do Brian Hoyer is fully capable of doing it, and I'm sure they're going to do it with him as well," Tomlin said. "I just think when you've got a talent like Johnny Manziel, you're going to get him on the field and help him grow and develop even as you get into the regular season."
Tomlin doesn't to make detailed scouting report to prepare for Hoyer, though, since the veteran quarterback played for the Steelers during the 2012 season. The 28-year-old quarterback, who completed 24-of-44 passes for 261 yards during the preseason, appeared in two games in Pittsburgh during that season.
