4 Saints who will prove fans wrong during the 2022 season

Saints player No. 1: Jameis Winston

Some Saints fans love Jameis Winston, others despite him. We have a strong feeling Winston will win many disgruntled cynics over in 2022.

Mr. 30-30 could earn a new nickname this season if he establishes himself as a consistent starter at the position. That’s a big “if,” yet Winston has every reason to revive his career in his second year in NOLA.

A talented wideout corps of Michael Thomas, Chris Olave, and Jarvis Landry. A more stable (albeit not necessarily more talented) offensive line. Another projected season of defensive dominance.

His biggest obstacle will be limiting turnovers without the help or guidance of Sean Payton; Dennis Allen can develop into a beloved coach in his own right, but there’s no denying that Payton’s imprints were all over the Saints’ 2021 winning season and that Payton always knows how to get the most out of his players.

Winston will need to stay healthy all season long, too, after suffering a devastating knee injury in 2021. An extra year should help Winston feel more familiar in NOLA’s offensive scheme, and he’s already been developing scintillating chemistry with his receivers this offseason.

What could Winston’s 2022 campaign look like?

4,000-plus yards. 30 touchdowns. Single-digit interceptions. And a real shot at redemption for the former Bucs signal-caller.

NOLA signed Winston to a two-year deal partly due to the aftermath of the Deshaun Watson controversy and partly due to the franchise’s confidence in him. He has the strong arm, the pocket presence, and the competitive mentality and work ethic to be an elite quarterback for the Saints.

It’s time for him to execute in 2022.