The NFL has suspended Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston for the first three games of the 2018 season. Winston was suspended for an incident that took place over two years ago. Jameis already had a questionable past which included multiple incidents before he was even drafted. The Buccaneers are stuck in an awkward spot with Jameis, but could still find a way out from his contract.
What Winston do this time?
Back in March of 2016, Winston had just finished up his rookie season. He decided to go out to Scottsdale, Arizona to party with his friends and one night ended up in an Uber. The driver of the Uber accused Winston of grabbing her crotch while they were waiting in a restaurant drive-thru.
The driver never pressed charges, but the incident came to light last fall when the accuser told her story to BuzzFeed. Shortly after the story came out, the NFL launched its investigation. Winston denied the accusation and even had former Florida State teammate, Ronald Darby, back him up.
However, the story became less clear as time went on and other players disputed Darby’s account. The NFL hasn’t released what information it found or how they found it, but it was enough for the league to hand down a three-game suspension. Winston will not appeal his suspension.
The Buccaneers have a way out
In the short-term Winston will be allowed to take part in offseason programs, but once the suspension begins he must stay away from the team. But the incident may cause his long-term future to be in doubt. Winston is still on his rookie contract and the team just picked up his fifth-year option.
The contract complicates things a bit, but it also gives the Bucs a chance to get rid of Winston. It’s unlikely the Bucs will release him this year, but after this season is over there is a small window where the Bucs could release Winston without owing him any guaranteed money if he’s not injured.
Winston’s play has been up and down throughout his short career, and soon it might be time for the Buccaneers to move on.
