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Report: Winston named Saints' starting QB after battle with Hill

Chris Graythen / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The New Orleans Saints named Jameis Winston as their starting quarterback following a competition with Taysom Hill, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Winston, who joined the team in 2020, will make his first start for New Orleans against the Green Bay Packers on Sept. 12.

Hill won three of his four starts for the Saints while Drew Brees was injured last season, with Winston acting as the backup.

However, Winston's impressive preseason performance Monday appeared to make him the favorite to earn the job, which was left vacant after Brees retired in the offseason.

The 2015 No. 1 overall pick completed nine of his 10 passes for 123 yards with two touchdowns - both downfield throws to Marquez Callaway - in a 23-21 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Winston had reportedly gained the support of many of his teammates during his battle with Hill.

The 27-year-old started five campaigns for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before joining New Orleans as a free agent. Winston led the NFL with 5,107 passing yards during his final season in Tampa Bay, but he also threw a league-high 30 interceptions.

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