Manziel expected to be selected well before Patriots’ first pick.
The New England Patriots are scheduled to host top quarterback prospect Johnny Manziel on a pre-draft visit at the Gillette Stadium on Wednesday.
According to ESPN, Manziel will count as one of the team’s 30 allotted visits with out-of-town prospects, and will have talks with officials despite the franchise already having Tom Brady signed through until 2017 and back-up Ryan Mallett under contract through 2014.
The young star is widely expected to be selected well before the Patriots come into play with the 29th overall pick, and he is understood to be scheduled in for several other visits with NFL clubs.
Manziel became the first freshman to win the Heisman Trophy in 2012, as he led all FBS quarterbacks in Total QBR in 2012 and finished third in 2013.
However, as well celebrated as he has been, he has also faced criticism and questions from certain sections of the media, with experts and Minnesota Vikings coach Mike Zimmer insisting that there are “flags” that come up when you consider the whole package.
His main concern revolved around Manziel’s persona off the field, and whether or not he had the focus and commitment to work at his play and ensure that he is one of the next best performers in the league.
While he did enjoy an impressive pro day, the media attention surrounding it was a concern for some, while there are aspects of his play that have also forced pundits to question whether or not he will make a successful transition to the NFL.
Nevertheless, New England appear keen to speak with Manziel to get a better understanding of the 21-year-old, with many expecting him to be selected high in the first round.
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