Can Jameis Winston make the leap in year three?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston is undoubtedly one of the top young signal callers in the NFL and ready to make a major leap.

Jameis Winston’s leadership, gunslinger mentality and ability to extend plays has the young Tampa Bay Buccaneers on the up and seeking their first playoff berth since 2007.

The third year pro out of Florida State has carried his team to a 15-17 record over the past two seasons including an impressive 9-7 year last time out.

Winston has thrown 50 touchdowns to 33 picks in his career. And, it is in this area that he must improve in 2017 if he is take make the transition from promising young talent, to top-level franchise quarterback in the NFL.

The talent is there, both physically and mentally. But, the decision-making is where he needs to elevate his game.

A career completion percentage of 59.6 isn’t quite where it should be. Though some of that comes with the growing pains of adjusting to the speed and complexity of NFL defenses.

The former Seminole hasn’t been blessed, like other young quarterbacks, with a strong offensive line either. He has often found himself on the run looking to force plays. Winston doesn’t get situations where he should be able to simply sit in the pocket and go through his progressions.

The lack of a running game in 2016 also hasn’t helped. Circumstances aside though, Winston has the ability to become an elite level quarterback in this league.

But, will that happen in 2017, if at all?