Todd Gurley, Johnny Manziel Autograph Scandal: Cleveland Browns' NFL Rookie Defends Heisman Trophy Candidate

If a player is compared to Johnny Manziel, one would often wonder whether it was a direct comparison to the good, or the bad, of the troubled QB. The star caused mayhem, and sold autographs, during his Texas A&M NCAA days, and it seems Georgia's RB Todd Gurley has followed in his footsteps. Despite a rumoured season-long suspension, he has Manziel's backing, but will this hamper his Heisman Trophy and NFL dreams?

Gurley was caught out for selling his autographs, which is frowned upon. Manziel had been through this in college too, and it seems he hasn't forgotten the ordeal. He explained, "I feel for him. He's built an image for himself. He's built somewhat of a brand. I feel he should be able to capitalize off it. I don't think [NCAA rules are] going to change any time soon ... It's an ongoing problem in college athletics. I think [college football] is at a big crossroads right now with how much money, college football in particular, is bringing in for universities, for networks, for the SEC, for everything. Then there are [players] walking out with an $800 scholarship check a month."

Should NCAA stars receive further help? Perhaps Manziel is right. These stars and their brand bring in millions to their respective colleges, so is there really any harm in making some money to support yourself? However the pair view it, it is a breach to NCAA rules. Gurley will hope to get back out on to the field, but rumours are suggesting a season-long ban, which means his Heisman dreams are well and truly.

On top of this, as it did with Manziel, this autograph scandal may cost him NFL draft places, meaning he may earn millions less. How should the NCAA handle this?