Getty Images

When running back Emmitt Smith was on the Cowboys in the 1990s, he was part of a team that had great success on the field despite off-field issues that regularly made headlines.

Johnny Manziel has made the same kind of headlines without having the same kind of on-field success since entering the NFL. During a Friday appearance on PFT Live from Radio Row in San Francisco, Smith was asked what he’d say to the (for now) Browns quarterback.

“I think Mr. Manziel has a decision to make,” Smith said. “It’s either the nightlife of his career. Just that simple. I think every player comes to that crossroad. It’s either the nightlife, the streets, or your career. I chose my career and I think a lot of players choose their career as well. Some don’t. He needs to get it. He may be a guy that already has enough, if you will, but you have to be hungry. You gotta be willing to sacrifice certain parts of your life.”

Smith said “if you’re not willing to do it, maybe [playing in the NFL] is not for you.” Some of Smith’s teammates were able to excel without limiting themselves away from the game, but there aren’t a lot of players who have been able to strike that balance during their time in the league.