You don't know how important a backup quarterback is until your starter goes down. In that case, the quality of the second-string passer can be the difference between a failed season and a playoff appearance.
The Jacksonville Jaguars currently have Nick Mullens as their backup QB. Mullens has been around the league for a while, but his 5-15 record as a starter shows there's plenty of room for improvement at the position.
After the New York Giants' latest depth chart announcement, a new option may be on the table.
Jaguars could trade for Jameis Winston after QB falls on Giants' depth chart
Jameis Winston has more than enough experience to be a capable backup QB. The former first overall pick has 87 starts under his belt and has even played in the playoffs. Winston is one of the best backups in the league, but he's set to be the third-string QB for the Giants. New York announced this week that Jaxson Dart will open the season as the team's second-string passer, with Russell Wilson starting.
It's not a shocking move, but it makes one thing clear: Winston could be moved at the right price.
Jacksonville could be his perfect landing spot. He would easily slot in ahead of Mullens in the second-string role. And if Trevor Lawrence goes down at any point in the season, the 31-year-old could lead a functional offense.
Winston can be a bit of a rollercoaster ride. He's known for his willingness to throw the ball into tight windows down the field, for better or for worse. His 111 career interceptions rank sixth among active quarterbacks, only behind much more experienced players. Last season, he threw 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in nine games for the Cleveland Browns.
High turnover rates aren't exactly sought out in backup quarterbacks. Teams typically want a "game manager" who won't single-handedly win many matchups but won't lose them either. That's not Winston. But his gunslinger mentality does raise the ceiling of an offense. At his best, he can drive the ball down the field, creating explosive plays left and right.
Now, imagine that kind of QB with Brian Thomas Jr. and Travis Hunter at the other end of those throws. With the Jags, Winston would have the weapons around him to lead an effective offense. With the support of Liam Coen, he might just become the best backup in the league.
It probably wouldn't cost more than a late-round draft pick to get him, too. If the Jaguars have any reservations about Mullens, they should be calling the Giants.
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