TORONTO (AP) – The Canadian Football League said Thursday it would approve a
contract for quarterback Johnny Manziel if one is reached with the Hamilton
Tiger-Cats, who have the former Heisman Trophy winner on their negotiation list.
The team has 10 days to make an offer to the 25-year-old Manziel, who would
remain on the list for another year even if he rejects the bid.
The league in September said it would not approve a contract for Manziel until
next season and only if he met certain conditions stipulated by Commissioner
Randy Ambrosie. The former Texas A&M star played two tumultuous seasons in the
NFL until the Cleveland Browns released him in March 2016 amid a number of
off-field issues.
Hamilton (6-12) finished third in the East Division last year and missed the
playoffs. The team said it appreciated the league’s “diligence” and Manziel
for “thus far demonstrating the attributes necessary to continue his career in
our great league.”