New Orleans Saints Quarterback Ramps Up Practice

Good news for New Orleans Saints fans. According to ESPN Saints reporter Katherine Terrell, starting quarterback Jameis Winston took another step in his recovery:

Jameis Winston is back at practice today and participating in 7-on-7
— Katherine Terrell (@Kat_Terrell) August 21, 2022

Winston had been sidelined with a foot sprain since August 8th. He was present at joint practices with the Green Bay Packers last week, but only participated in walkthroughs and individual drills with team mates. His feet were heavily taped and he was still sporting the knee brace he is expected to wear this season as a result of last season's ACL tear, but he apparently moved around well. Returning to 7-on-7 is a key step in his progress as the regular season looms.

Initially drafted first overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2015, the division rival Saints signed Winston in 2020 when the Bucs pounced on free agent quarterback Tom Brady. After a year on the bench under the tutelage of future Hall-of-Famer Drew Brees, Winston took over as starter for the Saints in 2021, leading the team to an impressive 4-2 record that included dominant wins over eventual playoff teams the Green Bay Packers and the New England Patriots. Tragically, he tore his ACL in his first start against his former team, and the Saints stumbled to a 9-8 record, missing the playoffs.

Winston has yet to see the field this preseason. Despite his injuries, the Saints are relying on him to be ready for their season opener and to build on the promise he showed early last year.