Power Rankings: Is Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback Matt Ryan the best in the NFC South?
May 8, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) works out for rookie mini camp at One Buc Place. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
4. Jameis Winston
If I was starting a new franchise and had to pick one of these four, I would take Jameis Winston. At just 21 years of age, Winston could lead Tampa Bay for the best part of 20 years, if all works out well for him.
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The problem here though is exactly that — he hasn’t taken an NFL snap, and until he does, I can’t justify placing him higher than Brees, Ryan or Newton.
So what are Tampa Bay getting in Winston?
They are getting a guy ready to step up to the pro-level after playing in the Florida State offense. Not only that, he possesses all the tools to become a great quarterback at the next level.
He can make all the throws and is excellent at reading defenses. Winston has a strong football IQ, which you can see for yourself in the video below.
The problem is, he’s the unknown. Many players, especially quarterbacks don’t become the players we expect them to become in the NFL. I think Winston will become a solid quarterback in the future, but who really knows?
For that reason, he can’t be placed anywhere on this list other than fourth. I wonder how we will look back on this decision a year or two from now.
Next: No. 3