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Johnny Manziel fined for gesture

NFL, Cleveland Browns

Browns backup quarterback Johnny Manziel was fined $12,000 for making an obscene gesture at Washington's bench in a preseason game earlier this week, league sources told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.

Manziel extended his middle finger after a third-quarter incompletion in front of Washington's bench during Cleveland's 24-23 loss Monday night.

Manziel said at the time that he had "words exchanged" with the Redskins and that he should have been smarter.

"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," said Manziel, who was competing with Brian Hoyer to be Cleveland's starting quarterback. Hoyer was named the starter on Wednesday.

Erik Burkhardt, who represents Manziel, told ESPN's Ed Werder that he hasn't decided whether to appeal the fine.

"We haven't made that determination or even discussed that yet. [Manziel's] only focus right now is on the game Saturday night," Burkhardt said.

Browns coach Mike Pettine expressed his displeasure with Manziel's act after Monday's game.

"It did not sit well," he 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."

The NFL has fined others for making the gesture, including then-Titans owner Bud Adams ($250,000) while celebrating a 2009 blowout win over Buffalo, and Jets coach Rex Ryan ($50,000) for gesturing to Dolphins fans at a 2010 mixed martial arts event in Florida.

ESPN.com's Pat McManamon contributed to this report.

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