NFL Preseason News, Schedule & Roster: Cleveland Browns Could Use Both Johnny Manziel, Brian Hoyer on the Field

By Paul John Rivera First Posted: Aug 23, 2014 03:57 PM EDT

The Cleveland Browns recently named Brian Hoyer as the team's starting quarterback in the upcoming season, but coach Mike Pettine is not ruling out using two QBs at the same time.

Pettine said in a recent interview that rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel could be used alongside Hoyer, pointing out that formulating a two-QB system is not out of the picture for next season.

"People have asked me about potentially a two-quarterback system and having a package for him. That is on the table," Pettine said via ESPN. "I don't know if that's anything that we want to commit to just now because Brian -- because of the competition -- is a little bit behind in the chemistry and continuity of working with that first group."

Hoyer, who went 8-for-20 for 108 yards in their first two preseason games, won the starting role, but Pettine pointed out that Manziel is not way behind in the race, expressing confidence that the former Texas A&M standout will be ready to contribute once his number is called next season.

"We didn't see him as truly behind, but it was just Brian had that slight edge," Pettine said of Manziel. "We're confident that if we do put Johnny in a game, he'll play well."

The 21-year-old quarterback actually had better statistics than Hoyer in their first two preseason games where he completed 14-of-27 passes for 128 yards, but Pettine felt that the Tyler, Texas native is not yet ready to start.

Manziel, the 22nd overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, accepted Pettine's decision and said that he will take it as a challenge to work harder and improve his game.

"I need to earn everything for me to get in," Manziel said. "Nothing should be given to me, I completely understand that. I need to continue to come in here every day and get better and be around these guys and let them know who I am and how I am."

The Browns will open their 2014 NFL season campaign against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sept. 7.