When Jameis Winston signed with the New York Giants this offseason it wasn’t just about finding a team it was about defining his career. After a 3-14 season, the Giants are looking for a fresh start and Winston believes he can be a part of that.
On Monday during his introductory press conference Winston explained why he chose the Giants despite having Russell Wilson on the roster. For Winston it wasn’t about competing for a starting job it was about being part of something bigger—a chance to help rebuild a franchise in the city.
Why Winston Chose the Giants?
Winston didn’t sugarcoat the Giants’ 2024 struggles but saw opportunity where others saw uncertainty.
“This team is looking for a complete 180,” Winston said. “This team wants to make a splash and there’s no better place to do it than right here in New York City as a New York football Giant.”
The Giants’ QB room went through a lot of changes this offseason. While the signing of Russell Wilson was a sign of stability at the position, Winston saw it as an opening not a roadblock.
“My initial thought going into this offseason was to find an opportunity that gave me either a starting role or a bridge opportunity to be a starting quarterback,” Winston said. “And I think this situation is similar to that.”
Winston said whether he’s competing with Wilson or mentoring a rookie quarterback taken with the 3rd overall pick he’s ready to contribute in any way.
“Whether it’s a veteran quarterback I have to compete with and help serve and help make better for this team or it’s a quarterback from college I have to help get better, I have to compete with and serve.”
Competing with Veterans and Rookies Alike
Winston isn’t backing down from the challenge that lies ahead. At 31, he knows this could be one of his last chances to show he still has what it takes to lead an NFL offense—and to prove that to himself.
“I don’t believe in coincidences,” Winston said. “What drew me to New York was a quarterback room that needed to get better—and make a difference. That window of opportunity opened up for me.
Winston’s experience in Cleveland last season showed flashes of brilliance: those wins over the Ravens and Steelers, that 497-yard performance against the Broncos. But it also showed him where he needs to improve—like when he threw three interceptions in three different games.
That competition between Winston and Wilson could actually elevate the entire Giants team. And if the Giants do draft a quarterback, Winston’s leadership could be just the thing to help develop the next generation of quarterbacks. That’s a role he’s eager to play.
A Friendship with Russell Wilson
Winston’s relationship with Russell Wilson was a big draw for the Giants. That relationship is built on mutual respect, even between competitors.
Winston has said of Wilson: “My relationship with Russ is good.” Few people know just how much Wilson has shared with him. He was one of the quarterbacks who gave Winston a behind-the-scenes look at how he runs his businesses, takes care of his body, trains-and what he does to get mentally prepared.
That kind of rapport between two of the team’s quarterbacks can create a really collaborative environment in the quarterback room. And that benefits both the players and the team as a whole.