Free agent quarterback Jameis Winston might be returning to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported the two parties have been in communication.
It's playing out just like Bruce Arians said it would. Checking behind Door No. 2 while keeping Winston in play. https://t.co/Rtq56OXR7P
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 16, 2020
Winston, 26, was the first overall pick of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Buccaneers. The former Heisman Trophy winner actually earned a spot in the Pro Bowl after his rookie season in Tampa Bay.
However, Winston's effectiveness on the gridiron have compromised his production to the Bucs' winning. Despite leading the league in passing yards this past season, the 6-foot-4 gunslinger “led” the league in interceptions. He threw for over 5,100 yards, 33 touchdown passes and 30 interceptions.
Entering free agency, it was unclear whether the Buccaneers viewed Winston as a priority under center. They own the 14th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft next month. They could also throw a huge sum at first-time free agent signal-caller Tom Brady. Nobody knows what Brady will do yet, but he wants to play another season at 43 years of age.
Winston's infamy at quarterback may not be an intriguing option for other QB-needy teams. Squads such as the Los Angeles Chargers, Chicago Bears, and Indianapolis Colts don't appear interested in Winston. Free agent Teddy Bridgewater has talked to the Bears, and could possibly be their starter. But if Chicago was interested in Winston, it may not conclusively be for the starting role.
Going back to the Buccaneers could make sense if Tampa Bay can't wrangle Brady and if Winston wants to keep his starting gig.
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