Giants Sign Jameis Winston to $13M Extension Through 2028 Season

Jameis Winston signed a two-year, $13 million extension with the New York Giants to remain the primary backup for quarterback Jaxson Dart.

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- The New York Giants and backup quarterback Jameis Winston reached a two-year, $13 million contract extension on Sunday, September 6, 2026. This agreement ties the 32-year-old veteran to the franchise through the 2028 season. Winston, who was originally signed last offseason to a two-year, $8 million deal to backup Russell Wilson, currently earns just over $4 million for the 2026 campaign. During three appearances last season, Winston completed 56.1% of his passes for 567 yards, recording two touchdowns and two interceptions. He also caught a touchdown pass during one of the team's most notable plays of the year.

In a concurrent roster move, the Giants finalized a two-year extension for guard Jon Runyan. According to agents Drew Rosenhaus and Kyle Lincoln, Runyan’s new deal is worth $22 million and features $21.5 million in guaranteed money. The 29-year-old lineman has started 29 games since joining New York as a free agent in 2024. Over his career, which began as a sixth-round pick for the Green Bay Packers in 2020, Runyan has appeared in 96 total games and earned 79 starts.

Quarterback Depth and Roster Security

Winston serves as the primary contingency for second-year starter Jaxson Dart, whom the Giants selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL draft. Dart, known for a physical style of play, missed two games during his rookie season due to a concussion. Winston stepped in for two starts last year when Dart took over the starting role early in the season. The quarterback room also includes developmental passer Jake Haener, who currently resides on the practice squad. Under new head coach John Harbaugh, the team is attempting to improve upon the 4-13 record finished during Winston’s first year in New York.

Winston’s Career Statistics and Experience

Since being selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2015, Winston has amassed 89 career starts across stints with the Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints, Cleveland Browns, and Giants. His career totals include 24,792 passing yards, 156 touchdowns, and 113 interceptions, resulting in a 36-53 record as a starter. Despite potential starting opportunities with other organizations, Winston expressed a desire to remain in New York, stating he wants to be part of the solution rather than leaving when circumstances are difficult.

Leadership and Off-Field Presence

Running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. described Winston as a great leader and teammate who assists players on the first, second, and third-team units. Winston and Dart have maintained a seamless working relationship over the last 18 months. Beyond his on-field duties, Winston has expanded his media presence, appearing as a correspondent for the World Cup and as a guest on the Fox pregame show during the Giants' previous bye week. The veteran is currently one of the oldest players on the New York roster, providing a calming influence in the locker room as the team prepares for the upcoming season.