3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers with the most to prove in 2019

TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 18: Quarterback Jameis Winston #3 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers makes his way through the tunnel to warm up before the start of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on December 18, 2017 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 18: Quarterback Jameis Winston #3 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers makes his way through the tunnel to warm up before the start of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on December 18, 2017 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
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Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images
Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

QB Jameis Winston

There may not be anybody in the entire National Football League with more to prove in 2019 than Buccaneers’ quarterback Jameis Winston. After a rocky first four years of his career, he now enters the final year of his rookie deal; a year which appears to be make-or-break for Winston.

While Winston’s yardage numbers rank up near the top in the league, his turnovers also do. Under the guidance of Arians and offensive coordinator (and former Buccaneers quarterback) Byron Leftwich, Winston faces a year that may the most crucial of his life time. Should he bottom out in 2019, he will likely be facing a one-year “prove it” deal with another team for a fraction of what his extension will be worth in Tampa Bay if he plays well.

Not only have mistakes on the field buried Winston throughout his career, but also his poor decisions outside of the gridiron as well. From his heavily serious accusations back at Florida State University, to another extremely uncomfortable lawsuit last season, Winston is one mistake from getting a hefty suspension and potentially some jail time given his track record.

Winston has so much trust to earn from the coaching staff, his teammates, and from the community of Tampa Bay, who is currently split on their opinions on him. He must keep his head out of water off the field and make strides on the field in 2019; his financial future depends on it.

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