Manziel’s early departure from quarterback camp creates controversy

Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel was recuperating from dehydration on Sunday, his father, Paul Manziel, told The Dallas Morning News, a day after Manziel’s early departure from the Manning Passing Academy in Thibodaux, La.

Manziel missed and was late to some practice assignments because he felt ill, he told camp officials, according to a statement released by the academy. That led to a mutual decision he should go home Saturday, a day early, according to the statement.

Despite much Internet speculation, there was no reason given for why Manziel felt ill.

Archie, Peyton and Eli Manning, of the esteemed quarterbacking family, run the academy, where Manziel was serving as a counselor/coach.

Manziel’s father did not elaborate on his son’s early exit in a text message. He said Manziel was not football-ready, but was feeling better Sunday and resting at home with his family.

Other Internet reports captured Twitter posts that claimed Manziel was out Saturday night and early Sunday morning in College Station’s Northgate entertainment district.

Peyton Manning, the Denver Broncos’ quarterback, told ESPN that he hoped Manziel would return to the academy next summer.

“We always have counselors who leave early,” Manning told ESPN. “Johnny was great with the campers for the time he was here.”

Manziel remains scheduled to appear at SEC media days Wednesday in Hoover, Ala., A&M confirmed. The Heisman Trophy winner was always going to create a furor, but the interest is heightened after the weekend’s developments.

In January, Manziel was named the winner of the Manning Award, which honors the nation’s top quarterback and is named in honor of the college accomplishments of Archie, Peyton and Eli. Manziel traveled in May to New Orleans to accept the award. Last season against Arkansas, Manziel broke a game SEC total offense record first set by Archie Manning.