Bleacher Report: Too early to call Winston a bust

The Buccaneers are hoping Jameis Winston can be a winner under new head coach Bruce Arians. And while many are still not completely sold on Tampa Bay’s franchise quarterback, there are some along with the organization that don’t view him as a failure.

Bleacher Report’s Brad Gagnon writes in his most recent piece that while it’s time for Winston to step up in 2019, it’s also not right to label him a failure.

The standards have changed as pick rates have plummeted in recent years, but Winston was 21 years old when he was drafted, and he was thrown to the wolves with only a so-so supporting cast from the get-go.

It’s too early to call him a bust, especially considering that he’s a naturally aggressive passer who suits Arians’ offense and might finally have the support he needs.

Gagnon also points out how strong Winston finished the 2018 season. In the final seven games, the 25-year-old finished with 13 touchdowns and four interceptions while throwing a 64.4 completion percentage with a 100.1 passer rating. All under arguably inept coaching and playcalling.

There's no doubt that this season is make or break for the 2015 first overall selection. But if Arians has his way and Winston carries his offseason work into the season, then Tampa Bay will be in good shape with him leading the way.