Jameis Winston Quarterback Era
From Heisman winner to Buccaneers franchise record-setter, Winston's Tampa Bay tenure ended after the 2019 season.
Jameis Lanaed Winston (born January 6, 1994) is an American professional football quarterback for the New York Giants of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Florida State Seminoles, becoming the youngest player to win the Heisman Trophy and leading his team to victory in the 2014 BCS National Championship Game during his freshman year in 2013. He was selected first overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2015 NFL draft.
Quick Facts
- Role
- Starting Quarterback
- Draft year
- 2015
- Draft position
- 1st Overall
- Status
- Former Player (Left via Trade)
- Key record
- Most Passes by a Rookie in NFL History
- Notable trait
- High-risk, high-reward playstyle
Lore & Background
Winston set several franchise rookie records for the Buccaneers, earning him Pro Bowl honors, and led the league in passing yards during the 2019 season. However, he was unable to reach the playoffs with Tampa Bay and his 2019 campaign was also marked with him leading the league in interceptions, including setting the NFL season record for interceptions returned for touchdowns. After his rookie contract with the Buccaneers expired, Winston played for the New Orleans Saints and Cleveland Browns, alternating as a starter and backup, before joining the Giants in 2025.
Reader's Guide
Winston's tenure with the Buccaneers spanned from 2015 to 2019. He left the Buccaneers via free agency after the 2019 season, signing with the New Orleans Saints in 2020. In his NFL debut, his first pass was intercepted and returned for a touchdown, but he did not throw five interceptions in that game. His rookie season totals were 4,042 passing yards, with 18 interceptions and 6 lost fumbles (24 total turnovers).
Did You Know?
- Winston was born in Bessemer, Alabama, on January 6, 1994.
- He attended Hueytown High School, where he played both football and baseball.
- Winston was named the MVP of the ESPN RISE Elite 11 quarterback camp.
- He won the Heisman Trophy on December 14, 2013, becoming the youngest player to win the award at 19 years and 342 days.
- Winston led Florida State to a 34–31 victory in the 2014 BCS National Championship Game on his 20th birthday.
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