Johnny Manziel released by Cleveland Browns

Selected with the 22nd pick in the first round of the 2014 Draft by the Browns, Manziel's NFL career has been blighted by a string of off-field issues.

A statement from Manziel issued through his publicist read:??"I'd like to thank the Browns for the opportunity they gave me -??nearly two years ago, we all hoped that we were building what could be a championship team for Cleveland.

"I will always remember the support I received from the organisation, my team-mates and especially the fans."

Cleveland reportedly waited until Friday to offload Manziel because the Browns were waiting to see if another team would trade for his services.

While the Browns played the waiting game, Manziel was spotted clubbing for four successive nights.

The former Heisman Trophy winner's personal life has spiralled out of control to the point where his father??said he was not sure his son would live to see his 24th birthday.

Manziel is??being investigated for an alleged??domestic violence assault and, according to his father, is refusing to enter rehab.

In his 15 games for the Browns, Manziel threw for 1675 passing yards and seven touchdowns with seven interceptions. He also added 259 rushing yards and one score.