As the Minnesota Vikings work through their quarterback situation—both as a backup and possibly as a replacement for J.J. McCarthy—their available options are becoming more limited. Although there was recent speculation about he joining the team, he is no longer an option.
He played for the Cleveland Browns in 2024, announced his next destination with a brief four-word message.
“Start spreading the neWs [apple emoji],” Winston posted on X on March 21.
Even if Winston wasn’t a target for the Vikings, his signing further narrows the pool of available free-agent quarterbacks. As a result, the remaining options now have increased leverage in contract negotiations.
Winston, who has earned $76.5 million over his career, secured his first multi-year contract since 2022.
“BREAKING: The #Giants and QB Jameis Winston are finalizing a 2-year, $8M deal, which could reach up to $16M with incentives, multiple sources tell @NFLonFOX,” Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz reported on X on March 21.
“Signing Jameis Winston provides the #Giants with a veteran quarterback who could start at any point—even as early as Week 1—while also serving as a mentor if the team drafts a young QB.”
Jameis Winston a Polarizing Speculative Target for Vikings
Winston entered the NFL as the No. 1 overall pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2017. During his time with the Bucs, he made history—albeit infamously—by becoming the first quarterback to record a 30-touchdown, 30-interception season.
Over his career, Winston has amassed 24,225 passing yards, 154 touchdowns, and 111 interceptions. He also spent four seasons with the New Orleans Saints from 2020 to 2023.
CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin previously identified Winston as a potential fit for the Vikings as they assess J.J. McCarthy’s future.
“Carson Wentz is another big-armed journeyman who makes sense here, especially given his Midwestern roots,” Benjamin wrote on March 21. “However, Winston is slightly younger and has more recent starting experience. Kevin O’Connell might also appreciate his fiery leadership alongside the developing J.J. McCarthy.”
Sports Illustrated’s Will Ragatz had a different perspective on Winston’s potential fit with the Vikings.
“Winston is one of the biggest names still available, but he may not be the best match for the Vikings, either on or off the field,” Ragatz wrote on March 16. “As the ultimate gunslinger, he’s essentially an extreme version of [Nick] Mullens. While his personality has made him a fan favorite in the NFL, he also has a history of multiple allegations of sexual misconduct.”
According to ESPN, Winston resolved his legal matters in 2016 and has since earned praise for his leadership and presence in the locker room.
