New Orleans Saints backup quarterback Jameis Winston has faced harsh criticism since he played a role in a garbage-time touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, and Jimmy Graham became the latest teammate to speak out in his defense on Monday.
Several Saints players have gone public with their support of Winston, who was sent into the game Sunday with directions to take a knee and run out the clock. The quarterback and members of the offensive line instead decided to give running back Jamaal Williams a shot at his first touchdown of the season.
In victory formation, Winston handed the ball off to Williams, who worked across the goal for the touchdown to cap off a 48-17 victory.
Atlanta Falcons coach Arthur Smith, who was fired Monday, was angered by the move and loudly cursed at Saints coach Dennis Allen at midfield.
Allen later apologized for the late score, and pointed out that it was the players who made the decision to punch it in the end zone.
On Monday afternoon, Graham took to X to offer his emphatic support for Winston and take a shot at the rival Falcons.
Get off @Jaboowins back. This man is the best teammate I’ve ever had. Loves this city, this game and embodies everything you can ask for in a leader. Was a rare situation and we all take responsibility. Nobody thought it would get blown out of proportion. Also f*ck the falcons pic.twitter.com/nUMQQPX1M6
— Jimmy Graham (@TheJimmyGraham) January 8, 2024
"Get off (Winston's) back," Graham said in his post. "This man is the best teammate I’ve ever had. Loves this city, this game and embodies everything you can ask for in a leader. Was a rare situation and we all take responsibility. Nobody thought it would get blown out of proportion. Also f--- the falcons."
