This 2024 season is the year of the past for the New Orleans Saints. In Week 7, the Saints hosted Sean Payton and the Denver Broncos, while inducting Drew Brees into the team’s Hall of Fame. In Week 17, the Las Vegas Raiders will come to town, and Derek Carr will have his first game against his former team.
Week 11 will also follow that theme for the Saints, as the team prepares to host the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. Starting at quarterback for the Browns is a former New Orleans player that’s beloved by the fan base: Jameis Winston. Sunday will be his first game back in the dome since leaving the Saints in free agency this offseason.
Jameis Winston will return to play Saints with Browns in Week 11
Winston signed with Cleveland this offseason to serve as the backup to Deshaun Watson, but after Watson ruptured his Achilles in Week 7, Winston has taken over as the starter. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has already confirmed Winston will start again in Week 11 against the Saints.
The veteran quarterback spent the last four seasons in New Orleans before joining the Browns. Winston only played in 21 games during his four years, starting 10, but he was still a fan favorite. He won the fan base over with his fun personality and love for the city. That’s why everyone wanted him to be re-signed this offseason, even if he was just going to be the backup.
When Winston left, he penned a heartfelt message to the city of New Orleans, further showcasing his love for the city, but it was time to move on. His presence certainly would’ve been welcomed this season during the three weeks Derek Carr was sidelined with an oblique injury.
Now, when Winston returns with Cleveland, he’ll probably receive a warm welcome prior to the game. But, fans will again be against him once the game kicks off.