Manziel family thanks Texas A&M
Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel won't play in the first half of Saturday's game against Rice, but his family is grateful the NCAA penalty wasn't more severe.
Manziel, the 2012 Heisman Trophy winner, hasn't publicly addressed the situation since Wednesday's NCAA ruling and is not expected to comment after his family released the following statement.
"The Manziel family thanks Texas A&M University for its significant efforts on behalf of their son, and stands united with Texas A&M," the statement read. "The Manziel family sends a special thank you to their attorneys, Jim Darnell, Brad Beckworth and Jeff Angelovich, for their tireless determination on behalf of Johnny. We are looking forward to seeing Johnny back on the field against Rice."
Texas A&M proposed the suspension, but Manziel through his attorney said there was no admission of guilt, and the NCAA agreed there was no evidence Manziel was paid for signing autographs. ESPN reported earlier this month that Manziel was paid "five figures" for a series of autograph sessions.
"If additional information comes to light, the NCAA will review and consider if further action is appropriate," the NCAA said in a statement. "NCAA rules are clear that student-athletes may not accept money for items they sign, and based on information provided by Manziel, that did not happen in this case."
In addition to missing the first half of Saturday's game, Manziel will talk to his teammates about what can be learned from his particular situation. Texas A&M officials also will educate athletes about autographing items for individuals, ESPN reported.
"I am proud of the way both coach (Kevin) Sumlin and Johnny handled this situation with integrity and honesty," Texas A&M chancellor John Sharp said in a statement. "We all take the Aggie Code of Honor very seriously, and there is no evidence that either the university or Johnny violated that code."
