Chicago Bears Free Agency: Ranking realistic QB options

2. Jameis Winston

I almost shudder placing his name on this list, but I can’t deny that Jameis Winston is an instant upgrade over Trubisky. Let’s look at a few raw numbers.

In five NFL seasons, Winston has thrown for over 4,000 yards on three occasions, including amassing 5,000 yards this past season. If we’re being honest with ourselves, we can’t help but recognize last season as being a career year for Winston for both good and bad reasons.

The yardage was a career-high (5,109) as were the touchdown passes (33). Yet, Winston threw 30 interceptions and became the first quarterback in league history to throw at least 30 touchdowns and 30 picks in a season. It’s hilarious and impressive all at the same time.

In Tampa Bay, Winston had the weapons to let it fly — and he did. Chris Godwin and Mike Evans became arguably the NFL’s best receiving duo, both going over 1,000 yards and earning Pro Bowl nods.

In Chicago, Winston would have a pretty good 1-2 punch in Allen Robinson and Anthony Miller. The Bears would need to add another speed element at the position, but Winston would have a strong start between those two.

One thing Trubisky has lacked is being able to throw the deep ball, and Winston is no stranger to that. He isn’t afraid to let it rip, and to be frank, that’s part of what the Bears offense lacks.

Winston would come a bit more pricey than Keenum or Mariota, but he might fit a lot better than you would think. This Bears offense would look a heck of a lot better with a gunslinger under center.