Johnny Manziel Admits That 'Johnny Football' Persona Overtook His Own

After a injury-ridden, disappointing rookie season, Johnny Manziel has admitted that his "Johnny Football" persona quickly took on a life of its own.

In a recent interview Manziel shared, "I think at times Johnny Football probably took over me a little bit and I bought into that," says an AP report. "I didn't do my best to hush things down, push down the hype. At times I welcomed it with immaturity and just accepted that a little bit - and that's my fault."

Even during his college days Manziel has been known to party like a rockstar with famous celebrities when not playing football.

After admitting that he bought into too much of the hype that surrounded Johnny Football, Manziel says he is now trying to get away from that particular persona of his.

The first step to his recovery came in the form of a 10-week stay in a private rehabilitation facility in Pennsylvania. It is still not clear why Manziel voluntarily checked himself into the rehab center, but one thing is clear - Johnny Football won't be coming back anytime soon if Manziel wants to stay with the Browns.

Manziel went on to thank the Browns organization for their patience and respect of his privacy during what he called "a difficult time in his life." Manziel also personally thanked Browns head coach Mike Pettine, and owner Jimmy Haslam for their participation in his rehabilitation process.

Manziel fully remembers that it was partly caused by his partying ways that fellow teammate Josh Gordon was suspended once again by the NFL and subsequently only played in five games during the entire 2014 season. Gordon is suspended throughout the entire 2015 season for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Manziel should also remember that he was 0-2 as a starter last season and ended the season on the injured list.

So how does Manziel hope to fare better than last season? First, he moved from his apartment downtown to a house in a golf community on Cleveland's west side. When asked what else he has planned for the upcoming season Manziel shared, "Actions speak way louder than words. I'm doing the right things and taking the right steps necessary for me to put myself in the best position possible to be exactly what this organization drafted me to be."

One thing, however, is certain - Manziel's trademark money signs, which he makes after performing a big play, will not be back this season.