Kevin O’Connell and Johnny Manziel may have had different paths in their football careers, but their connection goes back to 2014 when O’Connell served as Manziel’s private quarterback coach. Little did they know that this relationship would shape both of their careers in the years to come.
At the time, Manziel was a highly sought-after prospect, fresh off winning the Heisman Trophy and leading Texas A&M to a 9-4 record in the SEC. O’Connell, a former NFL quarterback himself, saw potential in the young quarterback and took on the task of preparing him for the NFL Draft.
Their work together paid off when Manziel was selected 22nd overall by the Cleveland Browns in the 2014 NFL Draft. But their journey together was far from over.
In February 2015, the Browns hired O’Connell as their quarterbacks coach, and it was clear that his prior experience with Manziel played a significant role in the decision. The franchise was directly influenced by the relationship and trust that had been built between the two.
Manziel, who had a rocky start to his NFL career, was excited to have O’Connell as his coach once again. He gushed about O’Connell’s coaching style and how he had helped him develop as a quarterback.
“He’s been a huge part of my development as a quarterback,” Manziel said. “He’s been a guy that I’ve been able to lean on and trust. He’s been a guy that I’ve been able to go to with anything, whether it’s football-related or not.”
O’Connell’s impact on Manziel’s career was evident on the field. In his first start for the Browns, Manziel threw for 270 yards and a touchdown, leading the team to a 24-10 victory over the San Francisco 49ers. It was a glimpse of the potential that O’Connell had seen in him years before.
But their relationship went beyond football. O’Connell also served as a mentor to Manziel, helping him navigate the challenges of being a young quarterback in the NFL. He was there to offer guidance and support, both on and off the field.
Unfortunately, Manziel’s time with the Browns was short-lived, and he was released from the team in 2016. But O’Connell’s impact on his career was long-lasting. Manziel credits O’Connell for helping him mature as a player and a person.
“He’s been a huge influence on me, and I can’t thank him enough for everything he’s done for me,” Manziel said. “He’s been a great friend and a great coach.”
O’Connell’s coaching career has also flourished since his time with Manziel. He went on to serve as the quarterbacks coach for the Washington Redskins and the Los Angeles Rams before being hired as the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2020.
But despite his success, O’Connell still remembers his time with Manziel fondly. He reflects on their relationship as a special one that has had a lasting impact on both of their careers.
“It was a great experience for me to be around Johnny and to see him grow and develop,” O’Connell said. “I’m proud of the relationship we have and the work we did together.”
Their story is a testament to the power of mentorship and the impact that a strong relationship can have on one’s career. O’Connell and Manziel’s connection may have started as a coach and player, but it has evolved into a friendship that will last a lifetime.
As for Manziel, he continues to work towards a comeback in the NFL, and O’Connell’s influence will undoubtedly play a role in his journey. And for O’Connell, he will always be grateful for the opportunity to work with a talented player like Manziel and to be a part of his success story.
