Jameis Winston will make his first start for the New York Giants in Week 11 with rookie Jaxson Dart currently in the NFL’s concussion protocol.
The 31-year-old is embracing the city ahead of the contest and gave a nod to one of Broadway’s biggest hits in a Wednesday news conference.
‘This is something I’ve been doing since I’ve been four years old. Now, I get to do it in the greatest city in the world,’ Winston sang. ‘I’m gonna be singing it with my son.’
‘It’s the greatest city in the world!’ Winston repeated. ‘That’s a ‘Hamilton’ reference, if y’all don’t know.’
Winston’s crooning may have been slightly off-key, but at least the Giants quarterback is showing off leading-man energy as he takes over the starting role following Brian Daboll’s firing.
Winston has started 87 games during his 11-year NFL career to date, including seven last season with the Cleveland Browns. The Florida State product has a 36-51 career record as a starter and went 2-5 with the Browns last season, completing 61.1% of his passes for 2,121 yards, 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
And while Dart may be entrenched as the long-term starter for the Giants, Winston made it clear he will not throw away his shot to showcase he’s still capable of being an NFL starting quarterback.
‘I want fans to know that I’m gonna do my best,’ Winston said. ‘Obviously, I’m gonna have fun, but I’m gonna have a surgical execution and just play ball, man.’