Report: FSU Football Legend Jameis Winston Plans To Sign With Cleveland Browns
Free agency is in full swing across the NFL and there have already been plenty of big moves. The dominos in the quarterback market are falling swiftly after Baker Mayfield and Kirk Cousins signed massive deals.
Teams aren't wasting any time in an effort not to be left behind. On Tuesday morning, former Florida State star quarterback Jameis Winston decided to sign a one-year deal with the Cleveland Browns, according to Bleacher Report's Jordan Schultz. The contract is expected to be worth up to $8.7 million as the veteran signal-caller joins a franchise that made the postseason last season.
Winston is expected to back up Deshaun Watson, who is in the third year of a five-year/$230 million deal that is fully guaranteed. In all likelihood, Watson will be the starter if he's healthy. It is worth noting that Watson was limited to six appearances last year and is coming off surgery on his throwing shoulder to repair a broken bone. He's only thrown 14 touchdowns to nine interceptions since arriving in Cleveland in 2022.
This will be an opportunity for Winston to revitalize his professional career after fours in New Orleans. He spent the majority of that time as a backup, appearing in just 21 games with the Saints. Winston began the 2022 season as the team's starter and put together legitimate success. However, he tore his ACL after seven games, finishing with 14 touchdowns to three interceptions.
New Orleans brought in Derek Carr last offseason, forcing Winston into a reserve role. He's thrown six touchdowns to eight interceptions over the last two years.
Winston began his NFL journey with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after developing into the No. 1 overall pick out of Florida State. He became the youngest Heisman Trophy winner in college football history while guiding the Seminoles to a victory over Auburn in the final BCS National Championship in 2013. Winston helped the team reach the inaugural College Football Playoff the following year, finishing 26-1 as a starter.
Playing under former head coach Jimbo Fisher in Tallahassee, Winston completed 562/851 passes for 7,964 yards with 65 touchdowns to 28 interceptions. He ranks fourth in FSU history in passing yards, second in touchdown passes, and holds the program's as well as ACC record for career pass efficiency.
Winston was regarded as the top quarterback in the country in the 2012 class. His jersey was retired by Florida State in November.
READ MORE: Jordan Travis Endorses Former Five-Star Prospect After First Season With FSU Football
Stick with NoleGameday for more coverage of Florida State football throughout the offseason.
