NFL Free Agency 2020: 10 Best remaining players in second wave
By Samuel Teets
2. Jameis Winston, QB
When the Tampa Bay Buccaneers found out they were Tom Brady‘s preferred destination, the team quickly jettisoned Jameis Winston. In 2019, the first overall pick from 2015 became the first player in history to throw for 30 touchdowns and 30 interceptions in the same season. While he also threw for a league-leading 5,109 yards, Winston’s shortcomings limited Tampa Bay’s potential success.
After quarterbacks like Kyle Allen, Luke Falk and Mason Rudolph saw significant starting time last season, it’s bizarre to consider that Winston won’t land a starting gig. He could potentially beat Tyrod Taylor for the Chargers starting job or out-duel Gardner Minshew in Jacksonville. However, it seems like Winston will begin the 2020 season as a backup.
If Winston signs a one-year deal as a backup, he could potentially walk into a starting job next offseason. While the Florida St. product is too talented to remain a backup, he’s also too flawed to lead a team deep into the playoffs.
1. Cam Newton, QB
The former league MVP could arguably be ranked further down this list. For years, Cam Newton relied on his ability as a dual-threat quarterback to create extra opportunities for the Carolina Panthers. After his recent injuries, teams wonder if Newton can still move around like he used to. Newton also looked like he was in pain while throwing the ball several times last season.
At his peak, Newton is the best player on this list. However, the soon-to-be 31-year-old may be past his prime. The first overall pick in 2011 did produce solid numbers in 2018, but it was only the first season of his career where he completed more than 62 percent of his pass attempts. It would be foolish to believe he could replicate that level of accuracy for years to come.
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The best jobs available for Newton right now all involve quarterback battles or beginning the 2020 season on the bench. As a player in his early 30s and a former MVP, it seems unlikely Newton will accept anything less than an immediate starting role. If that’s the case, he could wait until sometime in the upcoming season before signing with a team.