The Tampa Bay Buccaneers got their first look at Jameis Winston over the weekend when the team held their rookie minicamp. After holding on to the No. 1 overall draft pick, the Buccaneers did what everyone was expecting them to do and draft the former Florida State star. While some rookie quarterbacks take their time developing, Winston's early reviews project that might already be ahead of the curve.
According to USA Today, Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht was very pleased with what he saw from the quarterback. According to head coach Lovie Smith, Winston showed great leadership on the field and while appears in shape and sharp to begin practices. Licht echoed those statements saying that Winston did exactly what the team wanted and more.
"I told my wife, Blair, 'I gave him an A,'" Licht said, via USA Today. "I thought it was a great day. He knew the offense already. He wasn't overwhelmed. He was even a little ahead of the game. He was already trying to change protections. The coaches were like, 'Wait up. Hold on.' You're right. But the other guys aren't there yet."'
According to the Tampa Bay Times, the Buccaneers have been extremely hesitant to call the rookie the starting quarterback, although looking at the team's roster it does not appear they have another choice. Despite getting shopped around during the NFL scouting combine, Mike Glennon remains on the roster. ESPN is reporting the Buccaneers are not looking to trade him as they need depth, but he is not likely to start over Winston in 2015. The team might opt to simply go with the rookie and let Winston develop throughout the season.
Several of the returning Buccaneers players are happy with Winston as their starting quarterback. Former first-round draft pick Mike Evans told ESPN that he was very happy with the Winston selection despite rumors that he wanted Marcus Mariota instead.
"Out of him and Mariota, I liked Winston more,'' Evans said, via ESPN.com. "He doesn't run as much. With that being said, I think he'll come in and do well for us. He can sit in the pocket and deliver the ball. That's more opportunities for the receivers. But Mariota can play ball as well.''
The Buccaneers appear to be set in their passing game while their rushing attack leaves some question marks. According to ESPN's Pay Yasinskas, Doug Martin did not have his fifth-year option picked up and might not be favored for the future. Tampa Bay is loaded at the running back spot and ESPN reports that players like Charles Sims and Bobby Rainey are favored over Martin.
