While Jameis Winston is known for his hilarious personality and endless optimism these days, he was once one of the most revered quarterbacks in football. During an appearance on the Trials to Triumph podcast, former Florida State head coach Jimbo Fisher reflected on his time coaching Winston.
“I don’t know if I’ve ever been around anybody who prepared like Jameis at a young age,” Fisher said. “Jameis never lost confidence. And it wasn’t arrogance, it was pure confidence in himself. Even if he made a mistake, he knew he could do something about it, and knew how to keep it in perspective.
“Jameis would go watch his practice film. Then he would start on his own till 10 or 11 at night, downstairs. He’d be downstairs in the same room. He’d never leave the building.”
Winston’s strenuous preparation paid off. In just two years as Florida State’s starter, he amassed 7,964 passing yards and 65 touchdowns, compared to 28 interceptions. He completed 66.0% of his pass attempts.
Winston posted a 26-1 record during that stretch, leading Florida State to a national championship victory in 2013 and an appearance in the inaugural College Football Playoff in 2014. For his efforts, Winston reeled in a treasure trove of awards during his collegiate career.
Most notably, Winston was named the MVP after the 2013 campaign, becoming the youngest player to ever win the award at 19 years and 342 days. Lamar Jackson later broke that record by a mere five-day difference.
Despite his success at Florida State, Winston never allowed his accomplishments to inflate his ego. Fisher still remembers Winston’s humility as clearly as any of his jaw-dropping touchdown passes.
“He knew every janitor in the building. He knew every lady who worked in the building. He knew everybody who was making lunch and dinner. He knew every walk-on on the team,” Fisher said. “He knew everybody, and he treated everybody the same.
“He never put himself above things… He never saw himself as a superstar, as crazy as that sounds. He knew he was good, but he just liked being one of the guys.”
Jameis Winston hasn’t lost those leadership qualities at the next level. The 31-year-old quarterback is beloved by fans for his positive attitude and endless reserves of energy.
Winston signed with the New York Giants this offseason after spending one year with the Cleveland Browns. Whether or not Winston is starring in the Big Apple, he’ll undoubtedly be cheering on his teammates.
