Two years ago, Jameis Winston was considered an outcast in the NFL. Fast forward to the present day, and he has a golden opportunity to revitalize his career.
After being replaced by Tom Brady as the quarterback of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Winston signed a one-year deal with the New Orleans Saints. He didn’t get to start in any games last season, but he did have the chance to learn from one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time in Drew Brees.
The most important lesson that Winston learned in 2020 is that he doesn’t always have to make the flashy throw downfield. It’s OK for him to just take what the defense gives him.
With the regular season about to begin, Winston was asked how it feels to be the new starting quarterback of the Saints. His response was as genuine as it gets, as he’s admit that he’s just grateful to have another chance to show what he can do on Sundays.
“It’s just fun,” Winston said. “It’s a blessing. It’s a blessing to have this opportunity to lead the pack, and I’m just grateful for it. It’s been more than a year removed for me having the opportunity, and I’m not taking anything for granted. I’m just blessed, and grateful.”
“It’s been more than a year removed for me having the opportunity, and I’m not taking it for granted,”
Jameis Winston on taking over as #Saints starting QB
– Story by @JohnDeShazier -> https://t.co/ntnHVXhbz5 pic.twitter.com/sPmMqJdyLt
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) September 8, 2021
Winston also shared his thoughts on this summer’s quarterback competition with Taysom Hill. That open competition may have brought out the best in the former No. 1 overall pick.
“It felt great,” Winston said. “I think the whole training camp, we made each other better and this team grew while we were competing. I was blessed to get the nod and I’m just grateful for that. I’m grateful for my teammates for pushing me, I’m grateful for Taysom for pushing me and us helping each other get better.”
If Winston can cut down on the turnovers while still connecting on some deep passes, the Saints will be a playoff-caliber team this fall.
Winston will make his first regular season start for New Orleans this Sunday against Green Bay. Kickoff for that game is at 4:25 p.m. ET on FOX.
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