[...] that his punishment’s over, Manziel says he wants to make the most of his new chance to start.
Speaking to reporters for the first time since being demoted last month for off-field behavior, the Browns’ quarterback didn’t apologize for his actions, offered no promises and said he feels fortunate to be back in the starting lineup this week against the 49ers.
Cleveland head coach Mike Pettine punished Manziel after a video surfaced of the QB holding a Champagne bottle and rapping profane lyrics at a club in Austin, Texas.
Manning, 39, has been sidelined since Nov. 15 with a torn plantar fascia in his left foot, bruised ribs and a sore throwing shoulder.
Brock Osweiler, 3-0 in Manning’s place, makes his fourth start Sunday when the Broncos (10-2) host the Raiders (5-7).
The Broncos signed fifth-year safety Shiloh Keo, who played 42 games with the Texans.
The Saints put running back Mark Ingram on injured reserve, ending his season after 12 games.
Ingram, who scored a go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter of New Orleans’ 41-38 loss to unbeaten Carolina on Sunday, is the team’s leader in yards from scrimmage with 1,174 this season, including 769 yards rushing.
