The Cleveland Browns denied a report that they "lied" about Johnny Manziel experiencing concussion symptoms before the season finale to cover up for him showing up drunk to a team meeting.

One well-placed Browns source who had contact with Manziel that day told ESPN's Adam Schefter that he "was heavily hung over on something."

An independent neurologist diagnosed Manziel with a concussion four days before the 2015 season finale, the Browns said Tuesday. 

The statement from the Browns came in response to an NFL Network report that the Browns "lied" about the concussion to protect Manziel because he was drinking heavily and had showed up for a team meeting inebriated.

"Johnny Manziel came to our facility on the morning of December 30th and complained of concussion symptoms," a statement released by the team said. "He was tested by an independent neurologist and entered the league's concussion protocol. He remained in the protocol until January 12th after being cleared by the independent neurologist."