Quarterback Jameis Winston #5 of the Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Browns fans are about to see a new face under center, and it’s one they’ve been hoping to see in action. Jameis Winston is set to take over as starting quarterback after Deshaun Watson suffered a season-ending injury against the Cincinnati Bengals. Winston quickly proved his readiness, taking control of the offense in Week 7 after backup Dorian Thompson-Robinson was sidelined with a finger injury.
This marks Winston’s first start since Week 3 of the 2022 season, back when he was with the New Orleans Saints. It’s a tough reintroduction to starting action as he’ll face the Baltimore Ravens’ defense while trying to revive one of the NFL’s most struggling offenses. The Browns currently sit at the bottom of the league in total yards and rank 29th in scoring, a stat line Winston will be eager to improve.
But the job just got even more challenging. According to Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot, the Browns are facing a potential shortage on the offensive line. Starting tackle Jedrick Wills missed consecutive practices and is unlikely to play Sunday, while key linemen Wyatt Teller, Ethan Pocic, and Jack Conklin were all limited in practice on Thursday. With these uncertainties, Winston might have to adjust to a reshuffled front line in his season debut.
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Despite the difficulties, this start is a significant opportunity for the 30-year-old quarterback. With a solid performance, Winston could make a case for being a long-term fixture in Cleveland, especially after the offseason departure of wide receiver Amari Cooper.
The Browns are also making a change on the coaching front, with head coach Kevin Stefanski handing over play-calling duties to offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey. The shift could bring a much-needed spark to an offense that’s struggled to find rhythm this season.
The combination of Winston’s arrival and fresh play-calling might just be the jolt Cleveland needs to pull off an upset against Baltimore. If not, it could be yet another frustrating afternoon for Browns fans.
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