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Will Jameis Winston's Impressive Rehab Entice the Saints to Re-Sign the Quarterback?

Are Jameis Winston's impressive workouts enticing enough for New Orleans to re-sign the quarterback?

Kyle T. Mosley

In this story:

Could Jameis Winston become the "2022 Comeback Player of the Year?"  It's too early to project. We still don't know if Winston will have a new home after March 16.  

Whether Jameis Winston will get a second shot in New Orleans is beside the point for now. His rehab workout videos are impressive. You immediately notice his progress. 

Jameis has reclaimed most of the agility in his footwork. And, the knee is looking stronger on dropbacks and lateral movement.

Although Winston's rehab is progressing well, do the Saints believe his dedication and passion are enough for him to return to New Orleans?

WINSTON - A MODEL TEAMMATE

In two seasons, the embattled quarterback appeared to be on the verge of becoming "The Man" for the Saints. His stint can be considered a success. We must remember, Jameis went from being a former franchise quarterback to just another one of the guys in his first year under Brees and Payton. Players gravitated to his passion before taking the reins as the Saints starter in 2021.

Many considered him to be a model teammate and leader. However, the "jury was still out" with some Saints fans.  Some are clamoring for another to suit up in NOLA.

Comparatively, is there a better option at the moment? If you run the scenarios for acquiring Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson, or Jimmy Garoppolo, the cost would be high for the cash-strapped Saints. 

Also, the NFL Draft has a few "sure shots" available. Somehow Mickey Loomis and Khai Harley will figure a way out of the 2022 salary-cap mess.

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Oct 25, 2021; Seattle, Washington, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Jameis Winston (2) passes the ball against the Seattle Seahawks during the first half at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

THE 2022 OFFSEASON

The 2022 offseason has New Orleans projecting a QB in the NFL Draft. In addition, others run scenarios for acquiring Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson, or Jimmy Garoppolo.

I recall watching from the Jacksonville press box as Winston ran for first downs and connected for five touchdown passes in a 38-3 demolishing of the league's MVP and then-Super Bowl favorites from Green Bay. 

5-2 as a starter — Packers, Patriots, Commanders, Seahawks, and Buccaneers — must factor as a reasons for New Orleans to re-sign Winston. Right? 

Dennis Allen isn't Sean Payton and may pivot away from Winston's style of play.

WINSTON WITH OPTIONS

Regardless, if Jameis Winston continues to make incredible strives during rehab, his market value will increase. Quarterback-thirsty teams in Pittsburgh, Washington, Houston, Denver, and Carolina could offer him another opportunity — but at what cost to Winston? 

Would it be another one-year contract or an extended commitment to the former No. 1 overall draft pick to seal the deal? Or, could a new offensive coordinator be a good pairing for Winston? 

Will the allure of Mike Tomlin and his 15-season winning track record be appealing — especially with a running like Najee Harris toting the rock in the Steel City?

Winston is an intriguing figure. Allen nor Loomis have disclosed if the team will re-sign Jameis. Changes within the Saints coach staff point to a shift in philosophy under Allen. 

Of course, Jameis' connection with Sean Payton was the main attraction. Since New Orleans' offensive mastermind has stepped away and Pete Carmichael assuming a new role with the team, are the Saints still on Jameis' radar?

On March 16 — when free agency begins - we shall see.

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Kyle T. Mosley
KYLE T. MOSLEY