LeBron James has a rooting interest in the Browns' renewed quarterback sweepstakes.

He is a 'Johnny Football' fan.

"I'm one of his biggest supporters," James said of rookie Johnny Manziel.

With Cleveland coach Mike Pettine mulling a switch at quarterback with four games left, James said Manziel is prepared to play if the Browns decide to start him over Brian Hoyer this week against Indianapolis.

"He's ready to go but he's still learning," the NBA megastar said on Monday after practice. "He's a rookie, he's still learning. If coach is ready for him to give him the nod, he'll be ready to go but he's going to have some bumps and bruises, just like any other rookie quarterback would have in the NFL or any other professional sport."

James' marketing firm represents Manziel and the two have become close. James said he speaks with Manziel weekly.

Associated Press

(China Daily 12/03/2014 page23)