Jameis Winston was not the answer to the Cleveland Browns’ chronic QB problems in 2024. While Winston’s 2-5 record was at least better than Deshaun Watson’s 1-6 showing, and certainly better than the winless Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Bailey Zappe, he didn’t match a 39-year-old Joe Flacco’s (4-1), or even Watson’s (5-1), winning ways from the 2023 season.
Maybe Winston isn’t a starter anymore. But USA Today’s Tyler Dragon believes there’s still a role for the potential future TV host – his on-air Super Bowl duties have turned heads in the industry, as Dragon notes – on the Atlanta Falcons backing up Michael Penix.
Dragon believes it’s inevitable Kirk Cousins will eventually leave. Winston is a logical choice to back up the former Heisman candidate at Washington.
“Super Bowl 59 festivities proved that Winston’s got a future in television. Fans enjoy the charismatic quarterback,” Dragon wrote.
“TV can wait for a while, though, because the well-traveled QB still has football left in him. Winston possesses above-average arm strength, is experienced and a good guy to have in the locker room.
“Winston’s play can be erratic. His propensity to give the football away resulted in demotions at practically all his stops (Tampa Bay, New Orleans and Cleveland). He isn’t a long-term answer but he’s a serviceable starter or a high-end backup.
“The Falcons are inevitably going to move on from Kirk Cousins. Winston could fill in as Atlanta’s backup behind Michael Penix Jr.”
Winston still believes he has what it takes to be a starter. He was introspective during Super Bowl week in New Orleans about his lack of NFL success as a starter (36-51) but wants just one chance to prove he still can be a positive asset to a franchise.
“I'm praying for another opportunity to sling that pill and prove to these owners and head coaches that I can be a trustworthy quarterback,” Winston said. “I think that's the only thing that I haven't proven since I've been in this league. I've had the numbers in terms of statistics, but, man, I haven't won enough games.”
Winston still has the look of an NFL QB. This isn’t a case of a UFL talent in denial.
But he may need to accept what Cam Newton couldn’t and Aaron Rodgers may have to this offseason: life as an NFL QB2.
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