The New York Giants will start J.J. McCarthy at quarterback Sunday against the Texans in Houston, pushing Jameis Winston back to the bench just days after Winston himself was pulled in a loss to the Saints at MetLife Stadium.
Winston, who signed with the Giants as a backup quarterback, had taken over the starting job after Jaxson Dart was lost for the season with a knee injury. He started four games before being replaced by McCarthy during Sunday’s loss.
“Every single week, you’re defined [by] the last time you stepped foot on the field,” Winston said. “Last game, my job [was] to lead the New York Football Giants to a win and that didn’t happen. That being said, I understand where I’m at now.”
Winston said he’s prepared to do whatever role the team needs from him — which, as it did a year ago, may mean mentoring a younger quarterback rather than playing himself.
“I’m extremely grateful I still get to do what I love — and that’s play football at a high level for the New York Football Giants,” Winston said. “Being able to accept roles and understand ‘How can I be the best at my role with this team?'”
Dart has previously credited Winston, the first overall pick by the Buccaneers in 2015, with helping him adapt to life in the NFL. The Giants are hoping Winston can play a similar role for McCarthy, who will start Sunday for the first time since the final game of last season with the Vikings.
McCarthy called Winston a “great teacher” who “has helped me out from the get-go since I got here.”
Winston returned the praise this week, saying he’s been impressed by McCarthy’s approach since taking over the starting job.
“Someone that came in, took the position by the horns and executed very well,” Winston said. “He’s embraced a fresh start. I know what it is to feel like you have a chance to start over again.”
Winston spent five seasons in Tampa Bay before moving on to the Saints, where he went 5-2 as a starter in 2021, his second year in New Orleans.
John Harbaugh described Winston as one of the “best teammates [and] best leaders you could ever be around,” adding, “He wants what’s best for the team. Of course, he wants to play. He wants the ball in his hands. He also wants J.J. to do well and will help him be the best player he can be.”
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