Jameis Winston Bids Emotional Farewell to Cleveland Browns Fans After Joining Giants

Jameis Winston may have only spent one season with the Cleveland Browns, but it seems the city left quite the impression on him. After signing with the New York Giants on a two-year, $8 million deal last month, Winston shared a heartfelt goodbye to Browns fans in an open letter posted on Instagram.

"I’m so happy and grateful for everything we experienced together this past year. From day one, you welcomed my family and me with open arms — and for that, I’m forever thankful," Winston wrote, reflecting on his time in Cleveland.

He didn’t hold back on praising Browns fans, lovingly known as the "Dawg Pound." "Snow or shine, highs or lows, your energy never wavered. You reminded us all what loyalty, passion, and community really look like. This year was one of growth, service, and adaptability — not just for me personally, but for my family as well. And Cleveland, you played a major role in that," Winston added.

Winston, who joined the Browns as a backup to Deshaun Watson, stepped up as the starter following Watson's season-ending injury. In his 12 appearances, including seven starts, Winston managed 2,121 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. He even broke a franchise record with a jaw-dropping 497-yard, four-touchdown game during a Week 13 loss to the Denver Broncos. Okay, that game was nuts—who throws for nearly 500 yards and still loses?

Winston’s message extended beyond football, thanking the people of Cleveland for their impact on his life. "To the amazing men and women who make this city special: thank you. You’ve made a lasting impact on our lives, helping us rise to a greater calling — one rooted in unity, service, and love," he shared.

The Giants, meanwhile, are making moves to address their quarterback situation. Along with signing Winston, the team also brought in Russell Wilson on a one-year deal reportedly worth up to $21 million. Wilson seems ready to take charge, stating, "I expect to be the starter and to be able to come here and rock and roll every day." Bold words—let's hope the Giants' QB room doesn’t turn into an ego showdown.

But the quarterback drama doesn’t end there. With the No. 3 pick in the upcoming draft, New York is still eyeing a potential long-term solution under center. Giants head coach Brian Daboll highlighted the challenge of finding the right quarterback, saying, "The face of a franchise is a quarterback. It’s not an easy position to evaluate, coach, or play. You do the best job you can to try to find the right one for your team."