7 possible replacements for Matthew Stafford in Detroit

Jameis Winston, QB – New Orleans Saints

If the 42-year old Drew Brees decides to retire this offseason, the New Orleans Saints would be wise to re-sign quarterback Jameis Winston. But perhaps the former number one overall selection in the 2015 NFL Draft would prefer a shot at a starting role over backing up Taysom Hill again.

If the Lions choose to go down this path, they would certainly be taking a risk as Winston comes with plenty of baggage. But he also comes with plenty of talent.

The 27-year old passer led the NFL in passing yardage in 2019, racking up 5,109 yards and a career-high 33 touchdowns. Unfortunately, that also came with a league-leading 30 interceptions and a disappointing 7-9 record.

In Tampa Bay, Winston would be replaced by arguably the greatest quarterback of all-time in Tom Brady this past season. Jameis would end up signing as a backup to both Brees and Hill in New Orleans on a one-year, $1.1 million deal last April.

Admittedly, this is quite a step down from Stafford. But if the team chooses to move on from their longtime passer, Winston is a player with plenty of upside in a very thin free agency market. He’s also started in 70 games in the NFL.

This potential signing may come down to whether the player has conquered his own demons and if the coaching staff in Detroit believes they can tap into his potential and eliminate his mistakes. If the Lions hire Dan Campbell as their next head coach, perhaps his prior relationship with Jameis Winston in New Orleans would help to aid in bringing him to the Motor City.