National Football League

Tate thinks Manziel has to tire of media attention

Published Jun. 4, 2014 12:28 p.m. ET

Connor Kiesel

Cleveland Browns running back Ben Tate and quarterback Johnny Manziel haven't been teammates for long, but Tate is already standing up for his (backup) quarterback.

The seemingly endless hoopla surrounding Manziel's every move on and off of the field is rubbing Tate, who signed with the Browns this offseason, the wrong way.

Tate took to Twitter to voice his displeasure with the scrutiny surrounding the rookie quarterback.

ESPN's Pat McManamon had Tate's response after Tuesday's practice.

"He's a great football player so I understand why he gets some of the constant media attention. At the same time I just figure at this stage he's tired of it and he wants to come in here and do his job and try to win the starting quarterback position."

Tate also chided the media for hyping or failing to properly report stories.

Tate had the cameras pointed in his direction as he threw out the first pitch before the Indians game at Progressive Field Tuesday night. Manziel will be the focus Wednesday night when he's joined by fellow first-round pick Justin Gilbert to carry out the first-pitch honors.

It may be to Tate's chagrin but Manziel fever is only in its infancy.