• Johnny Manziel threw in front of 13 NFL teams on Thursday.
  • The renewed interest in Manziel has reignited criticism over Colin Kaepernick remaining unsigned for over a year.
  • Many in the sports world feel Manziel’s checkered past would make him a more suspect signing than Kaepernick, who many feel was not signed because of his national anthem protest.

On Thursday, Johnny Manziel took an important step toward a possible comeback attempt in the NFL by throwing in front of several NFL teams.

Manziel took part in San Diego State’s pro day because they didn’t have a quarterback, throwing to receivers in front of NFL teams for the first time in two years.

ESPN’s Eric D. Williams reported that 13 teams NFL teams showed up to see Manziel throw, with ESPN’s Adam Schefter saying it was a “strong” day for Manziel.

However, the renewed interest in Manziel has also generated new criticism – toward Colin Kaepernick’s unemployment. Though Kaepernick is still working out and preparing for a job in the NFL, there haven’t been any signs that NFL teams are considering signing him.

Deadspin's Samer Kalaf similarly criticized the NFL for showing interest in Manziel over Kaepernick:

"Johnny Manziel has been out of the NFL longer than Colin Kaepernick, and yet the ex-Browns flameout can get team scouts to at least sniff him. Manziel wasn't even able to sign with a CFL team! Meanwhile, Kaepernick is reduced to private throwing sessions in front of no one who can give him a job while he gets Texans owner Bob McNair and other NFL employees deposed for the QB's collusion case."

Fans and analysts pointed to Manziel's troubled past since falling out of the league, which included alleged drug use and charges of domestic violence, which were later dropped as part of an agreement.

Others in the sports world reacted angrily to Manziel's workout.

Manziel has said in recent months that he is sober and hopes to return to the NFL again.