Jameis Winston, the former NFL quarterback, recently sparked controversy for comments he made to a group of elementary students regarding gender roles. In his speech, he called on boys to “rise up” and “be tough.” He recommended that girls stay “quiet, ladylike and delicate.” Pundits and other social commentators as well as advocates for gender equality responded in outrage over the comments almost immediately. To backpedal, Winston was forced to release a complete apology soon after.
Winston’s remarks haven’t been the only thing about his public persona that has raised eyebrows. His past is dotted with violent criminal activity that has blurred the lines between his once-celebrated prowess on the court. In 2014, he stole crab legs from a local Publix grocery store and was cited for shoplifting. This unfortunate incident triggered a series of legal misadventures that would follow him for the rest of his career.
Beyond the shoplifting charge, Winston was under severe scrutiny for his alleged treatment of women. In a 2016 instance, he allegedly physically groped an Uber driver. This incident sparked an NFL investigation, which resulted in a three-game suspension based on the league’s investigative conclusion. In 2018, after the incident, he settled the matter with the Uber driver in a confidential settlement without any admission of liability.
Winston’s history is writings sexual assault while a student Florida State University. In 2015, he settled out of court on those allegations without admitting wrongdoing. These all overshadow some of his great on-field success to paint a picture of an awful reputation that was at odds with his achievements.
Regardless of those controversies, Winston dazzled in 2019. He instead achieved the most remarkable feat of them all, making NFL history becoming the first player to throw for 30 touchdowns and 30 interceptions in a single season. All of it combined, along with his brilliant performance that day solidified his undeniable talent as a quarterback and created this complicated narrative about his career.
Over the past year, Winston has made headlines by defending his fellow quarterback, Deshaun Watson. Watson had a slew of sexual misconduct allegations and Winston was not shy in providing his endorsement. This move made Winston’s public reputation even more complicated, leading to serious inquiries over his ability to judge character and sense of moral priorities.
The NFL has trained its spotlight on Winston’s more charismatic side. They produced a Miracles of Moses hype video featuring some of his best and funniest lines! At media outlets like The Athletic, despite the controversies, he has earned rave reviews for his talent and keen sense of how to attract eyeballs.
The collective impact of Winston’s history must not be ignored. He has settled with nearly two dozen accusers over various allegations without admitting liability, which has led many to question his character and suitability as a role model.