Tag: Tre’quan Smith

WATCH: Jameis Winston throws a dime at Saints practice

It didn’t take long for Jameis Winston to impress at New Orleans Saints training camp, connecting with Tre’Quan Smith on a huge deep pass.

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It shouldn’t surprise anyone, but Jameis Winston might have the best arm at New Orleans Saints training camp. The Heisman Trophy winner and former first-overall draft pick has the credentials to make the case for it, and now he’s put up some highlights in practice to drive the point home.

Winston connected with third-year pro Tre’Quan Smith on a corner route deep downfield, putting the ball where only his receiver could get it. And credit to P.J. Williams, the defensive back in coverage on the play, for running with Smith in stride all the way. But when a quarterback and receiver are in sync like this, even the best cornerbacks will struggle to make a play:

In his media conference call after practice, Saints coach Sean Payton was energized by Winston’s performance: “Look he’s doing well, I’ve been pleased. He’s in great shape. He’s got a real live arm, I love his attitude and his work ethic. He’s doing very well.”

Winston has endeared himself quickly to his new coaching staff and teammates, but it’s unclear whether he’s won the backup job behind Drew Brees. Taysom Hill has the inside track on that role given his experience in the system. But if Winston can keep making plays like this in practice, it might only be a matter of time before he’s the next man up.

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