We’re all still in wait-and-see mode when it comes to quarterback Jameis Winston and his future with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite the season ending a month ago, things seem just as murky now as then. While Winston did throw for over 5,000 yards, he also had 30 interceptions.
Head coach Bruce Arians has said we shouldn’t expect a decision on Winston’s future anytime soon, but that hasn’t stopped draft analysts from speculating that the former Heisman Trophy winner’s time in Tampa Bay could be done.
In his first NFL mock draft, Daniel Jeremiah had the Bucs taking Oregon QB Justin Herbert at the 14th spot. Today, draft analyst Lance Zierlein has the Bucs taking a quarterback in his mock draft, only it’s not Herbert. Zierlein thinks Tampa Bay will take Washington QB Jacob Eason.
“Tampa might trade back, but Eason could still be the target. While I expect him to be taken later than this pick, his stature and arm strength will give Bruce Arians some Carson Palmer vibes.”
Palmer, himself, has said Winston could have a massive Year 2 if the Bucs bring him back. By his own admission, Palmer said that Arians’ system takes time to learn, but once you master it, the results speak for themselves.
Eason is 6-foot-6 and nearly 230 pounds. This past season he threw for 3,132 yards with 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions. The Bucs would certainly love Eason’s size and strength, but would they really be willing to reach so high for him when they have other pressing needs?
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