Former Browns Quarterback Johnny Manziel Appears in Court

— -- Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel appeared in Texas court this morning for a charge of misdemeanor assault related to family violence. He allegedly assaulted Colleen Crowley, a former girlfriend, in January.

The charge against Manziel, a Heisman Trophy winner at Texas A&M, carries a $4,000 fine and could land the former football star in jail for up to a year.

Manziel entered the court room wearing a blue suit, and was mostly deferential in demeanor, speaking only to the judge to answer questions. He was ordered to immediately cut off contact from Crowley, including text and email. When asked whether he possessed any firearms inside of his home, he replied no.

Manziel's lead attorney, Jim Darnell, released a statement following today's court appearance.

“Johnny has, over the last 24 hours, fulfilled all the current requirements of the court. He looks forward to defending himself against the misdemeanor allegation and focusing on the next phases of his life, both personally and professionally," Darnell said in the statement.

Crowley filed a protection order claiming that Manziel beat her and dragged her into a car against her will during a night out on Jan. 30. The statement said Crowley was hit so hard that her eardrum was ruptured by the blow.

Crowley's medical records are in the hands of police.

This is not the first time Manziel, 23, has found himself on the wrong side of the law. He was arrested following a bar fight in 2012.