Former No. 1 Overall Pick QB ‘Would Love’ To Join Mike Tomlin’s Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a quarterback problem this offseason to address, and free-agent Jameis Winston would love to be the franchise’s solution next season.

Pittsburgh ran with a two-man quarterback tandem, splitting starting duties between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. However, Wilson and Fields are both set to hit the open market, and it’s unlikely that the Steelers will welcome them both back for a re-run next season. Winston, the first overall pick in the 2015 NFL draft, most recently of the Cleveland Browns, would prefer the organization consider his services.

“Man, I love Pittsburgh you know, because I admire coach Mike Tomlin so much,” Winston said during an appearance on Barstool Sports’ “Pardon My Take” podcast. “You know the first Super Bowl ring I ever held in my hand was a 2009 Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl ring from Bruce Arians, so that is for sure aligned with my vision, but I don’t know what my Browns fans would say about Pittsburgh. That would be challenging, but it doesn’t matter, honestly, if that opportunity presents itself, I would love to team up with coach Mike Tomlin.”

Winston made seven starts in 12 appearances last season with the Browns, totaling 2,121 yards — his most in the past six years — with 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. The 31-year-old sat behind starter Deshaun Watson after landing a one-year, $4 million contract in free agency last offseason and made the most of the opportunity once injuries began catching up with the team. Winston showcased his next-man-up mentality and preparation, which could go a long way this go-around in free agency.

The Steelers might not have interest in entrusting Winston with next season’s starter role, but the 10-year veteran could serve as a mentor-like locker-room presence. If Fields, who’s 11 years younger than Wilson, is the franchise’s quarterback choice, Winston wouldn’t be a bad backup option to explore. Winston has played for three teams — the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints and Browns — and a plethora of roles throughout his career, giving the Florida State product valuable experience.

The NFL is over four weeks away from the start of free agency.

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