The quarterback’s time in Cleveland was brief, but provided some memorable moments. His love for the city and the team was also sincere.
CLEVELAND — Jameis Winston’s NFL journey has been a turbulent one, and 2024 was no exception.
The former Heisman Trophy winner and No. 1 overall draft pick hasn’t been a full-time starter in years, and upon signing with the Browns this past offseason, he knew his job would be to back up Deshaun Watson and be expected to come through when called upon. Those expectations went up a few notches in October, when he officially became Cleveland’s QB1 after Watson went down with a torn Achilles.
Though Winston couldn’t quite turn around Cleveland’s fortunes on the field, he did help provide some memorable moments, and his love for the team and the city were always sincere. That sincerity was evident once again on Thursday, when the 31-year-old quarterback penned a heartfelt letter to Browns fans after his signing with the New York Giants was made official.
“I’m so happy and grateful for everything we experienced together this past year,” Winston wrote in a message posted to social media. “From day one, you welcomed my family and me with open arms — and for that, I’m forever thankful.”
When Winston made his first start on Oct. 27, the Browns were sitting at 1-6, desperate for any bit of joy in a season that was quickly spiraling out of control. But with Winston under center, the offense finally showed some signs of life, and he capped the afternoon with a thrilling last-minute touchdown pass to Cedric Tillman that gave Cleveland a 29-24 upset win over the Baltimore Ravens.
What made that game particularly significant was that it came one day after the death of longtime “Voice of the Browns” and 3News sports anchor Jim Donovan. In a time of immense grief, it gave the Dawg Pound and Jimmy’s family something to smile about, even if only for a moment.
“To the Dawg Pound: You were electric. Snow or shine, highs or lows, your energy never wavered,” Winston said Wednesday of the club’s loyal supporters. “You reminded us all what loyalty, passion, and community really look like.”
“Snow or shine” gained an extra significance less than four weeks later, when the Browns welcomed the hated Pittsburgh Steelers to Huntington Bank Field for “Thursday Night Football.” Winston had noted the significance of the rivalry in the days leading up to kickoff, and with the flakes flying on the lakefront, he and his teammates delivered a gutsy performance in a memorable 24-19 victory.
For Winston, it will live on forever as “the most iconic snow game in NFL history.”
“The energy, the emotion, the unity — we all felt it,” he said of that night. “That night was Cleveland at its finest.”
Unfortunately, that would be the Browns’ final win of the season, and the team skidded to a 3-14 record and Winston was benched with three weeks to go. In 12 games (seven starts), he finished with 2,121 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.
Yet even among the struggles, Winston’s enthusiasm was palpable, from his inspiring pregame speeches to him “praying for the Lord to deliver me from pick-sixes.” According to Winston, the season wasn’t just about football, but personal growth, as well.
“This year was one of growth, service, and adaptability — not just for me personally, but for my family as well. And Cleveland, you played a major role in that. The spirit of this city, the heart of its people, and the bond we’ve built will always be with us.”
With Watson out for the foreseeable future, the Browns are looking to reshape their QB room, already trading for Kenny Pickett while seemingly exploring solutions through the upcoming draft. Though Winston won’t be a part of the next chapter, his impact will be felt for a long time to come.
“To the amazing men and women who make this city special: Thank you. You’ve made a lasting impact on our lives, helping us rise to a greater calling — one rooted in unity, service, and love,” Winston said. “Wishing you continued blessings, prosperity, and nothing but the best.”