Basketball star LeBron James tips Johnny Manziel for NFL glory

Miami Heat star LeBron James has admitted that he wants Johnny Manziel to be chosen first overall when the 2014 NFL Draft takes place this week.

The Cleveland Cavaliers chose James with their first pick of the 2003 NBA Draft, and he is hopeful that his friend Manziel will follow in his footsteps.

The pair are due to star in an advert for McDonald's together soon, but first Manziel must be chosen by an NFL franchise.

James told reporters: "Being a huge supporter and friend of Johnny, I want him to go Number one. Wherever he lands, he's going to be a heck of a football player for that franchise.

"If he happens to go to Cleveland, then I'll have two 'family members' there in him and Donte Whitner."

Many experts are tipping Manziel to be selected by the Cleveland Browns, who have fourth pick. The Houston Texans have first choice when proceedings commence at Radio City in New York on Thursday.