Saints expected to open contract negotiations with Jameis Winston

The New Orleans Saints are facing a number of changes this offseason, and that could include the quarterback position. A new report suggests that the organization is hoping to stick with a familiar figure for 2022.

The Saints are expected to open contract talks with Jameis Winston imminently and may have already done so, according to Jim Trotter of NFL Network. Winston and the Saints are comfortable with each other, and Winston is knowledgeable about the system that longtime offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael will continue to run.

Winston started for the Saints in 2021, but his season ended prematurely when he tore his ACL in October. Though the injury comes with a lengthy recovery period, there is some optimism that he may be ready for the start of the season.

Winston threw 14 touchdown passes and three interceptions in 2021, and the team was 5-2 in games he started. Perhaps the Saints could upgrade, but it is sensible that they might choose to stick with familiarity at this point.