CFL commissioner refutes claims of welcoming Manziel

CFL commissioner Jeffrey Orridge refuted claims Thursday he stated Johnny Manziel would be "welcome" to join the CFL:

Orridge acknowledged the Manziel rumor while downplaying any speculation regarding the 2012 Heisman Trophy winner to Kevin Seifert of ESPN.

"We try not to speculate on situations like that," Orridge said to Seifert, "and I really can't speculate too much on hypotheticals. But I can tell you that what's paramount to us is ensuring the success of an athlete, while at the same time preserving and promoting the integrity of the league and the game."

Manziel has been something of a nomad since being released by the Cleveland Browns in March, and while the Hamilton Tiger-Cats hold his CFL negotiation rights, general manager Eric Tillman told TSN.ca his club has not spoken with Manziel.

"Yes, it's true we have Johnny's CFL playing rights," Tillman said Thursday, "but we have not spoken with, or had any conversations with Johnny, his family, or any representative."