New England Patriots: Should they consider signing Johnny Manziel?

The New England Patriots have a need at the quarterback position this offseason. Should they consider signing Johnny Manziel?

The New England Patriots will be addressing their quarterback position this offseason one way or another. A weird statement to read, considering current starter Tom Brady is coming off an MVP season.

However the only quarterback on the roster other than the current 40-year MVP is 32-year old Brian Hoyer. Hoyer, who joined the club after they shipped out Jimmy Garoppolo, signed a three-year deal.

With just the two quarterback backs on the roster, both with short futures ahead, the team has plans to address the position this offseason.

The NFL Draft this year is littered with talent at the quarterback position. New England is currently slated with the 31st overall pick, but could trade up if they like one guy above the rest.

Looking at Belichick’s draft tendencies, a trade down is more likely. The Patriots haven’t made a first round draft selection since 2015, when the team selected Malcom Brown 32nd overall. Belichick could move down and draft a quarterback in the latter rounds, while adding more picks or talent.

Or perhaps, the Patriots feel the quarterback of their future isn’t available in this years draft class, and eyes will turn to free agency, where former Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel sits.

Manziel last played in the NFL in 2015 with the Cleveland Browns, but is currently in the middle of a comeback attempt. Manziel announced Wednesday that his comeback effort will start in the Spring League in Austin, Texas, beginning March 28. Here’s what he said in an interview with ABC News.

"“Football has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. Sometimes you take for granted how much you value something until it’s gone. My goal is to make it back to the NFL and I realize I have to earn that privilege,” Manziel said. “The Spring League has provided me with a great opportunity to play ball again, and ultimately, that is all I want to do. I miss the competition.”"

Speaking with ABC News on Monday, Manziel explained that he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, along with discussing his battle with alcohol and depression. He went on to admit that he has “made my share of mistakes”.

The distractions that come along with Manziel are sure worth taking note of, although that hasn’t stopped the Patriots before. Belichick has a long history of signing players with questionable backgrounds or players that attract attention. Some fail, like Albert Haynesworth, Chad Johnson or Tim Tebow, but some go on to succeed, such as Corey Dillon or Randy Moss.

Whether Manziel would succeed in New England is a huge question mark. He proved the talent is present during his time in Texas A&M, but that was four years ago. If he shows the talent is still there in his Spring League debut, New England could reach out.

Signing him in before training camp or OTA’s would allow the 25-year old to learn from perhaps the greatest quarterback and coach of all-time, along with McDaniels. Assistant quarterback coach Jerry Schuplinski is also returning, who played an important role in grooming Jimmy Garoppolo and Jacoby Brissett.

Next: How to handle the Big 3 in free agency

Manziel obviously comes with huge question marks, but a boatload of talent. Taking a look at the former Aggie wouldn’t hurt, and could perhaps even provide clarity on the quarterback position.