Jameis Winston Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports

Former Saints Pro Bowl RB defends Jameis Winston following controversial play

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 1/8/24

Retired running back Mark Ingram II spent two seasons as teammates with quarterback Jameis Winston with the New Orleans Saints.

The former three-time Pro Bowler defended Winston on social media Monday, one day after the signal-caller said a "team decision" led to New Orleans running a play out of victory formation for a garbage-time touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons. Winston and his teammates made the call against head coach Dennis Allen's instructions, but multiple current members of the team have also supported Winston on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Jameis Winston is a real one! True professional, selfless and an extremely hard worker. This notion that he went rogue is trash. If anything, it shows the love he has for his teammates. He is my brother, one of my favorite teammates. You are better after spending time with Jaboo!
— Mark Ingram II (@markingramII) January 8, 2024

I do believe the only thing wrong was that it was out of the victory formation. But there was no other way to accomplish what the players felt was right seeing as victory was the play sent into the huddle. However, you always have to protect yourself on the field. You never know. https://t.co/prat7i9brv
— Mark Ingram II (@markingramII) January 8, 2024

Jamaal Williams signed with the Saints last offseason after leading the NFL with 17 rushing touchdowns in 2022 with the Detroit Lions. The one-yard plunge on Sunday made the score 47-17 and was Williams' first time reaching the end zone this season.

The play drew a big reaction out of now-former Falcons head coach Arthur Smith, who yelled at Allen during their postgame meeting at midfield. Following the game, Allen said Smith's actions were warranted and he apologized for his team's decision.

While Smith's tenure in Atlanta is now history, Allen is safe for now. He's been rumored to be on the hot seat though with a pair of playoff-less seasons since arriving in New Orleans, and this incident probably won't make things any better.

For what it's worth, Allen addressed his future with the organization on Monday and said he expects to be back at the helm for the 2024 campaign.

Reporter: Is it your expectation that you're back as head coach next season?

Dennis Allen: “That is my expectation, yes.”
— Andrew Siciliano (@AndrewSiciliano) January 8, 2024

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