Why expanded leadership role makes sense for Jameis Winston now

8:56 AM ET

Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Gerald McCoy announced Wednesday that at the request of quarterback Jameis Winston, he would be stepping aside and taking on a “different” leadership role with the team. While this was the first time McCoy acknowledged publicly that he was “passing the torch,” the transition really began last season.

Some would say this change happened sooner than expected, but this was really the perfect time to do it. Here’s why it makes sense now:

This gets it out of the way

You knew this was coming. The Bucs have never had a quarterback of Winston’s caliber or his star power, and it would only make sense that he takes the reins. It was particularly wise to approach McCoy in the offseason and give things a chance to settle, just in case McCoy didn’t take the news well, versus doing it the week of a game.

And it was also smart for McCoy to get out in front of this, publicly acknowledging the change in leadership at the beginning of camp. He indicated it would be noticeable to fans. This way, he avoids a barrage of media questioning and rumors of a rift, like last season.

They’re a team led by offense

Over the past 20 years, since Tony Dungy introduced the Tampa-2, Buccaneers teams have been known for defense. But this team is led by offense, and the numbers reflect it: …

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