In Buccaneer Quarterback Jameis Winston’s case, “Hope Floats”
By JD Stenger
In a prove it year, Jameis Winston’s interception total goes through the roof. How does this translate into another contract for the Buccaneers quarterback?
If possible, set your emotions to the side. Look at the Jameis Winston situation from a common sense, practical view. From maybe an owners perspective. Like the money is coming out of your wallet.
You have a quarterback who, in four seasons, has shown that he has a big problem with interceptions. The problem is so invasive that it costs you wins every year. At the same time, the quarterback shows flashes of greatness.
Attempts to correct the problem by coaching staffs fail completely. In contract terms the quarterback has an option year at the teams discretion. Because of the flashes of brilliance, and the fact the Quarterback Whisperer Bruce Arians has been hired, hope is renewed that he can straighten out the interception problems.
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So you exercise the option on your quarterbacks contract, and pay him almost 21 million dollars for 2019. This option year is described by team officials as a “prove it year”, obviouslyexpected to mean that his play on the field will determine if he is offered a new contract by the Bucs.
Your quarterback responds by throwing for over 5,000 yards and 33 touchdowns, setting an NFL record by throwing for over 450 yards in consecutive games. All of that is superb and reason to celebrate.
Then the other shoe is dropped. Winston also is not able to overcome his worst flaw. His interception total goes through the roof with 30, making him the first member of the 30/30 club of touchdowns/interceptions. He also set another NFL record throwing 7 pick sixes during the season with the last one coming in overtime in game 16 against Atlanta on the last play of the game.