The Cleveland Browns are shaking things up in a last-ditch effort to salvage their dismal season. Reports have emerged that the Browns are turning to former No. 1 overall pick Jameis Winston to start at quarterback for their upcoming game against the Baltimore Ravens. This decision comes after starting quarterback Deshaun Watson suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in their last game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Winston, a seasoned veteran with 10 years of experience under his belt, joined the Browns this season and stepped in during last week’s game after both Watson and backup Dorian Thompson-Robinson went down with injuries. Despite a late touchdown pass to tight end David Njoku, the Browns ultimately fell short in a 21-14 loss.
The journeyman quarterback was once a highly-touted prospect, selected first overall in the 2015 NFL Draft. He showed promise early on, earning a Pro Bowl nod in his rookie season with over 4,000 passing yards for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Winston’s tenure with the Buccaneers was marked by highs and lows, including leading the league in passing yards but also interceptions during the 2019 season.
After a brief stint with the New Orleans Saints in 2021, where he filled in admirably as the starting quarterback, Winston found himself back in the spotlight with the Browns. While he may not have reached the status of a franchise quarterback, Winston has proven himself as a reliable option in times of need.
Now faced with the daunting task of turning around a 1-6 team with dwindling playoff hopes, Winston must step up to the challenge. Adding to the pressure is the recent trade of star receiver Amari Cooper, leaving the Browns with depleted offensive weapons.
In their upcoming matchup against the Ravens, Winston and the Browns will be up against a tough defense that ranks last in pass defense but first against the run. It will be a test of Winston’s ability to lead his team against the odds and spark a much-needed turnaround in Cleveland.
