NEW ORLEANS — After four seasons in New Orleans, quarterback Jameis Winston is no longer a Saint after signing with the Cleveland Browns. But the former Heisman winner's appreciation for all things NOLA was made abundantly clear in a heartwarming farewell posted on social media Wednesday.
The video published to both Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter) contained highlights from his time with the team, as well as a thank you voiced by Winston that was addressed to the city.
Winston said:
"NOLA,
"The Super Dome is the birthplace of my first NFL win, so saying farewell I don't know where to begin.
"I'll start with expressing gratitude and thanks to all of Who Dat Nation, the Saints organization, and especially (team owner Gayle Benson).
"I am grateful for all my teammates, coaches, trainers, the entire Saints support staff, and honestly, the whole city.
"I'm grateful for the festivals, Mardi Gras, second lines, great music, world-class chefs and witnessing the NOLA culture shine!
"I'm grateful for the love, encouragement, perseverance and real people who embraced this little light of mine.
"I love you, New Orleans, through and through.
"Trust and believe that y'all haven't seen the last of Jaboo."
During his stint with the Saints, Winston only started 10 games. The former starter was plagued by injuries, including a season-ending knee injury against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 8 of 2021. The Saints were 5-2 in games Winston started that season. He completed 95 passes on 161 attempts for 1,170 yards with 14 touchdowns and just three interceptions.
The following year, he suffered four fractures in his back during Week 1. Despite the injury, he completed the first three games before eventually losing the starting job to backup Andy Dalton after taking time off to recover.
In 2023, the Saints signed Derek Carr and Winston was once again relegated to second string and appeared in seven games as a backup throwing 25-of-47 for 264 yards with two TDs and three INTs.
According to the Browns, Winston will serve as a backup quarterback option starter Deshaun Watson returns from shoulder surgery that ended his 2023 season.
The Browns also have second-year quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson.
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