Manziel leaves Manning camp with apparent illness
Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel was excused from the 2013 Manning Passing Academy because of an apparent illness, ESPN reported Sunday.
Manziel, the Heisman Trophy winner, was serving the camp as a college coach/counselor. He missed assigned meetings and practice sessions because of the illness, camp officials said.
Some earlier internet reports stated that Manziel was sent home by Archie Manning because of "partying" but camp officials said those reports were not accurate.
The camp was at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, La.
"Johnny Manziel did participate in some activities in the 2013 Manning Passing Academy as a college counselor/coach," camp officials said in a statement said. "After missing and being late for practice assignments, Johnny explained that he had been feeling ill. Consequently, we agreed that it was in everyone's best interest for him to go home a day early."
Manziel also attended the academy twice while he was in high school.
"I enjoyed meeting Johnny," Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning said. "I can remember a 20-year-old Eli (Manning) missing a meeting and catching some flak. We always have counselors who leave early. Johnny was great with the campers for the time he was here. He had to leave early. I wish him the best and I want him to come back as a counselor next year."
ESPN could not reach Manziel for comment. He reportedly apologized to camp officials for not being able to complete his obligation.
The camp, in its 18th year, began Thursday and finished Sunday morning. Manziel was sent home Saturday afternoon after he missed the morning session.
