Jameis Winston entered the 2015 NFL Draft Combine with baggage — and Saturday brought even more concerns.
As Winston took part in quarterback drills in Indianapolis, reports were flying that his throwing shoulder was a problem. Try as he may to quiet those questions, Winston likely must contend with them all the way through April 30's draft.
MORE: Winston charming at NFL Combine | Winston: 'I look good and I know it' | QB 40 times
At stake: Winston's position among top prospects. Some observers had him going No. 1 in the draft. And that was despite character concerns regarding accusations of misconduct while he was at Florida State, including a sexual assault allegation.
On Saturday, a report arose concerning Winston's shoulder. In this one, a team scout told Doug Kyed of Boston media outlet NESN that his team viewed Winston's shoulder problems as a long-term issue rather than a short one.
On Friday, ESPN reported Winston would seek further testing for his throwing shoulder to learn why he was experiencing weakness. Winston later spoke to the media and said his shoulder was fine.
"I had an MRI just like everyone else," he said. "I've been playing football since I was 4 years old and my shoulder has been fine. I've got the same shoulder I've had the past two years at Florida State."
Winston had worked with quarterback guru George Whitfield, who downplayed the seriousness of the injury. Whitfield was surprised to hear ESPN's report.
"This is news to me," Whitfield said Friday at the Combine. "I just learned they pulled him for tests, but tests don't mean a problem. That just means they want another look. I do know this, I've been on the field with him and watched him throw, tested him, pushed him and he's been doing all his lifts and just threw Tuesday."
Winston took part in throwing drills on Saturday, hoping to put rumors to rest.
Contributing: Ray Slover
