Bipolar Diagnosis and Addiction Struggles: Johnny Manziel's Candid Comeback

As of October 2025, former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel has joined the cast of the fourth season of Fox's reality show Special Forces, where he has been candid about his struggles with mental health and addiction following his exit from professional football.

Manziel, who rose to fame as a star quarterback at Texas A&M University and was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2014, faced a tumultuous transition to the NFL. His time with the Browns was marked by both promise and controversy, as he dealt with off-field issues and misconduct that ultimately led to his release in 2016.

In the years since leaving the NFL, Manziel has faced a series of personal and legal challenges, including a domestic violence allegation that was later dismissed. However, in 2018, he revealed that he had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and was taking medication to manage his condition. Manziel has been open about prioritizing his mental health as a means to maintain his career in football and his overall well-being.

In 2024, Manziel launched a new podcast series called "Glory Daze," where he has had the opportunity to sit down with other iconic athletes and share their incredible stories. This venture has allowed Manziel to reflect on his own journey and find new ways to connect with his fans.

Now, as a participant on Special Forces, Manziel has continued to be transparent about his struggles, acknowledging that there were times when he "gave up on himself" and even contemplated ending his life. However, he has also expressed a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to move forward in a positive direction.