Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel in treatment program

Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel has entered a treatment center, his publicist told the Northeast Ohio Media Group in a statement.

“Brad Beckworth, a friend and advisor to Manziel and his family, has confirmed that Johnny entered treatment on Wednesday,” the statement read. “Johnny knows there are areas in which he needs to improve in order to be a better family member, friend and teammate and he thought the off-season was the right time to take this step.”

On behalf of Johnny and his family, we’re asking for privacy until he rejoins the team in Cleveland.”

Manziel has faced criticism about his partying since the Browns picked him No. 22 overall in the 2014 NFL Draft.

After being injured in week 16 against the Carolina Panthers, Manziel missed the Browns’ walkthrough the day before the final game of the season after he overslept after a night of partying.

Browns general manager Ray Farmer released the following statement:

“We respect Johnny’s initiative in this decision and will fully support him throughout this process. Our players’ health and well-being will always be of the utmost importance to the Cleveland Browns. We continually strive to create a supportive environment and provide the appropriate resources, with our foremost focus being on the individual and not just the football player.

“Johnny’s privacy will be respected by us during this very important period and we hope that others will do the same.”

This story was originally published February 2, 2015 at 10:29 AM with the headline "Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel in treatment program."