Johnny Manziel's Lawyer Says QB Is Preparing to Play in NFL for 2016 Season

Jim Darnell, an attorney representing free-agent quarterback Johnny Manziel, said his client is working out with the hope he can find a new home for the 2016 season, per ESPN.com's Jeremy Fowler.

"His immediate plans are to start getting ready for football," Darnell said. "We're working on it."  

Fowler reported Wednesday that an anonymous source close to Manziel said a 2017 return to the NFL could be more likely.

The likelihood any team signs the former Heisman Trophy winner before the start of preseason is almost certainly low.

For one, his off-field issues will scare off a number of possible suitors.

In April, a Texas grand jury indicted Manziel on a misdemeanor assault charge for an incident that occurred in January. He allegedly hit his then-girlfriend so hard she lost hearing in one ear. The NFL launched an investigation into the alleged assault in February, and if the league suspends Manziel, the punishment probably wouldn't go into effect until he signed with a team, further diminishing the chances somebody picks him up:

Manziel hasn't delivered much on the field since entering the NFL in 2014. In 15 games, he has thrown for 1,675 yards, seven touchdowns and seven interceptions and owns a 74.4 quarterback rating.

Those teams who entered this offseason looking for a backup quarterback have likely already filled their need, and those still in the market will want to find somebody more proven than Manziel.

The former Cleveland Browns signal-caller could find a home in 2016 if a team has injuries or underwhelming performances at quarterback, but 2017 is a much more realistic target for getting back on the field.