Vikings Lose Another QB Option as Winston Joins Giants
As the Minnesota Vikings continue navigating their quarterback situation—both behind and possibly instead of J.J. McCarthy—their choices are becoming more limited. Despite speculation about his potential fit in Minnesota, Jameis Winston is officially off the table.
Winston, who spent the 2024 season with the Cleveland Browns, confirmed his next move with a four-word post on X (formerly Twitter) on March 21:
“Start spreading the neWs 🍎”
The veteran quarterback has now signed a multi-year deal for the first time since 2022.
Winston Signs With Giants, Shrinking Free Agent Pool
Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz reported that Winston is finalizing a two-year, $8 million deal with the New York Giants, which could reach $16 million with incentives. The signing gives the Giants an experienced option who could start in Week 1 or mentor a young quarterback if they draft one.
Even if Winston wasn’t a primary target for the Vikings, his signing further reduces the number of available free-agent quarterbacks. With demand rising, remaining options like Carson Wentz, Ryan Tannehill, and Joe Flacco now have increased leverage in contract talks.
Mixed Reactions to Winston as a Vikings Fit
While CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin suggested Winston could have been a strong fit in Minnesota due to his experience and leadership, Sports Illustrated’s Will Ragatz had a different take. He questioned Winston’s on-field fit, calling him an extreme version of Vikings backup Nick Mullens. Ragatz also referenced Winston’s past off-field controversies, though the quarterback has since been praised for his leadership in locker rooms.
Winston, the former No. 1 overall pick in 2015, has had an up-and-down career, throwing for 24,225 yards, 154 touchdowns, and 111 interceptions. His aggressive playing style has made him a polarizing figure.
Vikings’ QB Options Running Thin
With Winston off the market, the Vikings must look elsewhere for veteran depth. They have been linked to names like Wentz, Tannehill, and Flacco. Other potential options include former Vikings quarterbacks Case Keenum and Teddy Bridgewater. There’s also speculation that Kirk Cousins could become available if the Atlanta Falcons decide to cut ties.
Ultimately, the Vikings remain committed to McCarthy as their future starter, but with a roster that won 14 games last season, they are taking a calculated risk. If McCarthy doesn’t live up to expectations, Minnesota could face an even bigger dilemma in 2026.
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