November 28th 2024.
Jameis Winston has become a fan favorite since taking over as the Browns' starting quarterback, thanks to his passionate speeches and infectious smile. But his former coach, Sean Payton, saw these qualities every day while coaching him in New Orleans. Payton fondly remembers coaching Winston for two seasons and is looking forward to facing him on Monday night when the Broncos take on the Browns at home.
During his time with the Saints, Winston served as Drew Brees' backup in 2020 before becoming the starter in 2021. Unfortunately, his season was cut short due to a torn ACL, but not before he had already thrown for 1,170 yards, 14 touchdowns, and three interceptions in just seven games. Payton was impressed with Winston's natural leadership abilities and his infectious personality that always brought a smile to everyone's face.
Since joining the Browns, Winston has helped the team secure victories against tough opponents like the Ravens and Steelers. In nine games played, he has thrown for 1,266 yards, seven touchdowns, and four interceptions. Payton joked that he used to hate Winston when he played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but now that they are no longer divisional rivals, he has nothing but respect for him.
Injury update: Payton declined to give any updates on the availability of defensive lineman Zach Allen and cornerback Riley Moss. The team will provide an injury report on Thursday afternoon due to the Broncos playing on Monday night. Both players missed last week's game, with Allen wearing a walking boot on his right foot and Moss sustaining an MCL injury. Payton did mention that the team considered putting Moss back in the game, which is a good sign for his recovery.
The Broncos will have a much-needed bye week after their game against the Browns, but Payton's approach to handling injured players remains the same. If a player is healthy enough to play, they will play. If not, they won't. Payton believes in putting the player's health and well-being first.
In other news, Broncos kicker Wil Lutz was named the AFC's special teams player of the week after his impressive performance against the Raiders. He made all five of his field goal attempts and both extra points, including kicks from 54 and 53 yards. Lutz has been a valuable addition to the team, with his only misses this season coming from long distances of 60 and 50 yards.
In roster moves, the Broncos signed inside linebacker Zach Cunningham to the 53-man roster from the practice squad. He has been elevated from the practice squad for the past three weeks and will take the place of Kwon Alexander, who has also been elevated three times since Alex Singleton's injury in Week 3. The team also signed offensive lineman Calvin Throckmorton to the practice squad after he cleared waivers. These moves provide depth and flexibility for the Broncos as they continue to navigate through the season.
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