Center Ryan Jensen signed this offseason with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The longtime Baltimore Raven brings a toughness and skill level that the Buccaneers haven’t seen in some time. Jensen was recently asked about our franchise quarterback, Jameis Winston. Jensen believes that Winston could be one of the elite quarterbacks in the NFL. That is high praise for our 4th year play caller.
Most would probably agree with Jensen if Winston can take that next step in his progression. The yards and touchdowns are eye popping for Winston. The problem is that he is still making rookie mistakes and turning the ball over at an alarming rate. Last year, Winston had a completion rate of 63%. He threw for 3,500 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He only played in 13 games due to injury. For his career, Winston has thrown for over 11,000 yards, 69 touchdowns, and 44 interceptions.
The Buccaneers haven’t exactly put the greatest offensive line around Jameis during his tenure in Tampa, so the signing of Jensen will make things easier for the Florida State product. Also, rookie running back Ronald Jones III will drive Winston’s interception rate down. The running game has to be better from last year’s anemic ground game. Jensen’s comments are not unthinkable because of the talent Winston possesses, but it has to translate on the field.
OTAs have started for the Buccaneers and Winston has already begun trying to build the relationship between wide receivers Mike Evans and DeSean Jackson. Winston is learning to be a professional and knows that to be elite you have to put in the work during the offseason. The deep ball has to improve for the Buccaneers. Jackson can still fly, but Winston couldn’t seem to find the continuity with the veteran speedster. The weapons the Buccaneers posses should make for a fun season. Let’s make Jensen a profit Jameis and become elite.
