Jameis Winston’s proving he knows a little bit about public relations.
But during his visit with the Buccaneers yesterday, he showed he also knows a little something about the history of draftable quarterback character assassination.
During an interview with state-run media/the team’s website (nice EXCLUSIVE), Winston said he understands what he has to prove to people after a turbulent college career.
“I just want them to know that I am human and I’m a great person,” he said. “This smile isn’t fake. I just want to show them that I can be the face of this franchise one day. Actions speak louder than words.”
That word choice couldn’t have been accidental, referencing the “fake smile” takedown of Cam Newton prior to the 2011 NFL Draft.
But Winston’s also right to understand he can’t convince people of much by talking, but that’s what yesterday was about, as he met with Bucs officials and ownership to convince them he could be trusted.
He added the obligatory “I would love to be here,” (another EXCLUSIVE), and the Bucs were careful to add the obligatory appearance that it wasn’t a done deal.
“Winston is widely believed to be on a very short list of players the team is considering with that #1 pick,” the house organ wrote. “along with Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota.”
Making a good first impression will help, but the Bucs have also indicated they’re going to do more research on Winston in particular as they make a franchise-changing pick.