Former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel recently revealed that he lost a significant amount of weight after his career with the Cleveland Browns came to an end. In a candid interview with Shannon Sharpe on the “Club Shay Shay” podcast, Manziel shared details about his struggles and the challenges he faced following his time in the NFL.
Key Takeaway
Johnny Manziel opened up about his struggles after leaving the NFL, revealing the impact of his partying lifestyle on his physical and mental well-being. He also discussed strained relationships, including his regret over distancing himself from LeBron James. Despite the challenges he faced, Manziel expressed that he has experienced personal growth and is now in a positive state of mind.
Struggles and Weight Loss
Manziel disclosed that after his departure from the Browns in 2015, he turned to the party scene in Las Vegas, where he engaged in excessive cocaine use. This led to a drastic transformation in his physique, with the athlete unintentionally shedding 40 pounds. He expressed shock at the physical changes he underwent, realizing the extent of his weight loss only after stepping on a scale in Las Vegas.
“At that point in time, man,” Manziel said, “I would look in a mirror and I didn’t see myself any different than when I was in Cleveland. Until I stepped on a scale at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Las Vegas, I didn’t realize I had lost 40 pounds at all.”
Strained Relationships and Personal Growth
During the interview, Manziel also touched upon his strained relationship with basketball icon LeBron James. Despite James’ efforts to support and mentor him, Manziel admitted to pushing him away during a period of poor performance and depression. Reflecting on this, he expressed regret and acknowledged feeling that he had let down the NBA superstar.
However, Manziel shared that he has undergone significant personal growth in the past decade and emphasized that he is now in a much better place emotionally. He stated that he is currently “the happiest I’ve ever been in my life.”
