The Browns have secured a new backup quarterback. According to Jordan Schultz of BleacherReport.com, Jameis Winston has reached an agreement with Cleveland on a one-year deal.
Reportedly worth up to $8.7 million, Winston’s contract solidifies his role with the Browns after spending the past four seasons with the Saints, primarily serving as a backup. Although he started the first seven games of the 2021 season before an ACL tear, he managed a 5-2 record.
Last season, Winston made appearances in seven games, completing 25-of-47 passes for 264 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions.
Expected to serve as Deshaun Watson’s backup in Cleveland, Winston’s arrival suggests that a return for Joe Flacco in 2024 is unlikely.
Drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in 2015, Winston posted a 28-42 record as the Buccaneers’ starter from 2015 to 2019. Notably, in his final season with Tampa Bay, he led the league in passing yards with 5,109, while throwing for 33 touchdowns and 30 interceptions.