It took a while before the New Orleans Saints settled their quarterback situation.
But after some detours, they ended up signing Jameis Winston to a two-year deal.
They were one of the few teams left in the running for Pro Bowl quarterback Deshaun Watson.
However, they went back to the drawing board when Watson joined the Cleveland Browns.
That move limited their options, making Winston’s re-signing one of their few good alternatives left.
The Saints enjoyed modest success with him under center last season, leading the team to a 5-2 record.
Unfortunately, an ACL tear ended his season and paved the way for Trevor Siemian to take over.
A year later, ESPN’s NFL insider Adam Schefter gives an idea of when the former Florida State standout would return.
Saints’ QB Jameis Winston, who tore his ACL on Halloween and reached agreement yesterday on a two-year deal with New Orleans, is expected to be ready for training camp this summer “if everything continues to go smoothly with his rehab”, per league source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 22, 2022
Schefter said, “Saints’ QB Jamies Winston, who tore his ACL on Halloween and reached agreement yesterday on a two-year deal with New Orleans, is expected to be ready for training camp this summer ‘if everything continues to go smoothly with his rehab,’ per league source.”
Winston Looks Ready
In preparation for his return, Winston has been posting training videos online to showcase his progress.
Aside from performing certain drills, there’s one video wherein he was already throwing footballs while simulating in-game movement.
Those clips might prove that his return will come sooner than later.
However, the Saints cannot rush Winston onto the field, especially because ACL injuries are delicate.
Therefore, they must establish a gradual process that might see him having limited participation at the start of training camp.
From there, the team can increase his workload until he achieves full health.
Losing him again despite the momentum he’s built will be the last thing the Saints would want.
NEXT: NFL Insider Reveals Saints Starting QB For 2022 Season
