Johnny Manziel Middle Finger Gesture Kills Chance To Become Opening Day Starter? [VIDEOS]

Johnny Manziel on Monday night likely flipped himself off to the Cleveland Browns bench for their regular season opener.

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Multiple media outlets reported another mind-boggling act from the 2012 Heisman Trophy winner in the Browns' preseason game against the Washington Redskins. Manziel gestured toward the Washington Redskins bench with his middle finger after a third-quarter incompletion during the Redskins' 24-23 victory.

According to ESPN, Manziel said he exchanged words with the Redskins after a play that unfolded in front of their bench.

"I felt like I did a good job of holding my composure throughout the night, and you have a lapse of judgment and slip up," Manziel said.

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The comments were reminiscent of his take on offseason antics, in which he said he still had some maturing to do. But then he compounded his mistake Monday by smiling and then laughing about it when asked during a postgame news conference.

 "I mean, I didn't think it was a positive," Manziel said, before adding he couldn't blame it on distractions, repeating he had simply lost his composure.

Browns coach Mike Pettine expressed that Manziel's gesture was no laughing matter.

"It did not sit well," Pettine said. "I was informed of it after the game and it's disappointing. Because what we talk about is being poised and being focused -- that you have to be able to maintain your poise."

Pettine is supposed to announce his starting quarterback today for the season opener between Manziel and Brian Hoyer.

And while neither quarterback stood out with his performance on Monday night, Manziel displayed yet again that the Browns have reason to question his maturity level. That can have a direct impact on his ability to lead the team.

ESPN added that the NFL can levy a fine of up to $11,025; Manziel can appeal the fine and have it reduced to about $1,500 if successful.

Do you think Johnny Manziel's gesture Monday night cost him the starting job for the Cleveland Browns' season opener? Comment below or tell us @SportsWN.

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