Jamies Winston’s Big Move: Giants Secure QB with 2-Year, $8M Deal

Big news for New York Giants fans! Free agent quarterback Jameis Winston has officially signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the team, a deal confirmed by ESPN sources and first hinted at by Fox Sports. Winston announced the move himself on Friday, March 21, 2025, posting “Start spreading the neWs” on X with an apple emoji—a nod to his excitement about joining the Big Apple’s storied franchise. This signing marks a fresh chapter for both Winston and the Giants as they gear up for the 2025 NFL season.

Jamies Winston in Giants jersey throwing football

at MetLife Stadium, 2025 NFL season quarterback

signing. @cbssports

                                              

From Backup to Starter: Winston’s Rollercoaster Journey

Jameis Winston’s NFL career has been anything but predictable. Drafted No. 1 overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2015, the 6-foot-4, 230-pound quarterback showed flashes of brilliance during his five-year stint in Tampa, racking up big numbers but struggling with turnovers. After honing his skills over four seasons with the New Orleans Saints, Winston landed with the Cleveland Browns in 2024. There, he started as Deshaun Watson’s backup but took over as the starter in Week 7 after Watson’s season-ending Achilles injury.

Winston quickly made his mark in Cleveland, sparking an offense that had stagnated under Watson. He led upset victories over the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers and set a franchise record with 497 passing yards in a Week 13 loss to the Denver Broncos. However, his old nemesis—interceptions—reared its head, with eight picks across three games leading to his benching in Week 16. He wrapped up the year with a 61.1% completion rate, 2,121 yards, 13 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and a rushing score. Now, at 31, Winston brings a decade of experience—105 games, 87 starts, 24,225 yards, 154 touchdowns, and 111 interceptions—to New York.

Why the Giants Chose Winston: A Strategic Signing

The Giants’ quarterback search this offseason was a wild ride. They flirted with Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford, only to see Rodgers meet with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Stafford re-sign with the Los Angeles Rams. Hours after Rodgers’ Pittsburgh visit on Friday, New York pivoted to Winston. This $8 million deal (with potential incentives up to $16 million) gives the Giants a cost-effective veteran who can start if needed and mentor a rookie.

Co-owner John Mara has stressed that finding the “quarterback of the future” is the team’s top priority. With only Winston and Tommy DeVito currently on the roster, the Giants are far from done. Holding the No. 3 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, they’re poised to add a young QB—perhaps a star like Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward—to pair with Winston’s leadership. This signing offers stability while keeping options open.

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Winston’s New York Connection: Saquon’s Advice Pays Off

Winston’s path to the Giants had a fun twist. While working as a media correspondent at the Super Bowl, he asked Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley—now a Giant—where he should sign. Barkley’s response? New York. Winston didn’t hesitate, telling NJ Advance Media, “Would I really sign with the Giants? Absolutely! I want to keep playing and do what I do best.” His visit to the Giants earlier this week sealed the deal, following a flurry of QB auditions including Joe Flacco and Russell Wilson.

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What Winston Brings to the Table in 2025

So, what does Winston mean for the Giants? For starters, he’s a spark plug. His ability to ignite an offense, as seen in Cleveland, could elevate players like Malik Nabers and help the Giants climb out of last season’s 3-14 hole. He’s a proven leader with a big arm and a bigger personality—perfect for a franchise needing a jolt. Whether he’s throwing bombs at MetLife Stadium or guiding a rookie from the sidelines, Winston’s energy is contagious.

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Looking Ahead: Giants’ QB Plans and Winston’s Legacy

The Giants aren’t stopping here. The 2025 NFL Draft looms large, and that No. 3 pick could define their future. 

Start spreading the neWs 🍎

— Jameis Winston (@Jaboowins) March 21, 2025

Will they trade up for a top prospect or build around Winston and DeVito while adding depth later? For Winston, this is a chance to rewrite his narrative. He’s more than a bridge QB—he’s a competitor eager to prove he can lead. As he settles into New York, fans are buzzing about what’s next.

Giants Nation, the news is spreading, and Jameis Winston is ready to make his mark. Stay tuned for a season that could change everything.

FAQs:

1.     Who did Jameis Winston sign with in 2025?
Jameis Winston signed a 2-year, $8 million deal with the New York Giants in March 2025.

2.     What is Jameis Winston’s new contract worth?
Winston’s contract with the Giants is valued at $8 million over two years, with potential incentives up to $16 million.

3.     Why did the Giants sign Jameis Winston?
The Giants signed Winston for his starting experience and ability to mentor a rookie after missing out on Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford.

4.     How did Jameis Winston perform with the Browns in 2024?
Winston threw for 2,121 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, with a standout 497-yard game for Cleveland in 2024.

5.     What pick do the Giants have in the 2025 NFL Draft?
The New York Giants hold the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft to target a young quarterback.

6.     Will Jameis Winston start for the Giants in 2025?
Winston could start but may also mentor a rookie, depending on the Giants’ draft plans.

7.     What is Jameis Winston’s NFL career record?
Winston has played 105 games, with 87 starts, throwing for 24,225 yards, 154 touchdowns, and 111 interceptions.

8.     How did Saquon Barkley influence Winston’s Giants signing?
Saquon Barkley recommended New York to Winston during a Super Bowl chat, sparking his interest in the Giants.

9.     What are the Giants’ quarterback plans for 2025?
The Giants aim to draft a franchise QB with Winston and Tommy DeVito as current roster options.

10.  When did Jameis Winston announce his Giants deal?
Winston announced his signing on March 21, 2025, via X with “Start spreading the neWs.”