Jameis Winston’s woes in Cleveland took an unexpected turn for the dramatic during the Cleveland Browns’ second showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers. In a game marred by turnovers and missed opportunities, the Browns quarterback found himself at the center of controversy after an apparent flop drew laughter and criticism from fans.
Winston’s exaggerated fall after minimal contact became the most talked-about moment of the Browns’ 27-14 loss.
Fans Blast Jameis Winston for Flopping Against Steelers
The flop occurred early in the second quarter moments after Winston’s costly interception to Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton. As the play unfolded, Winston hit the ground theatrically, seemingly attempting to draw a penalty against a Steelers defender.
The referee bought it but the fans didn’t let the 30-year-old QB off the hook. X (formerly known as Twitter) lit up with reactions, with one fan calling it, “Obviously Jameis Winston with the flop of the year.”
Obviously Jameis Winston with the flop of the year in the #NFL #Steelers #HereWeGo pic.twitter.com/mkeFaVB2Uo
— Obviously (Not) Tomlin (@Tomlin_Sense) December 8, 2024
“dude flopped like cleveland king LeBron [James],” said another.
“Very LeBron-esque….,” wrote one more fan.
“Classic soccer flop. He scammed the ref,” said another.
One NFL fan said, “He seemed to let up as soon as the ball left.”
One X user tweeted, “Sign Jameis up for the dive team. Keep that sh*t out of football”
“Damm I hope jamesis is ok to pursue his acting career in the next fast and furious,” said another.
Winston’s antics overshadowed a game already filled with struggles for the Browns. His performance — 24-for-41 for 212 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions — was yet another low point in a season defined by mistakes.
The Browns’ offense managed just one memorable moment in the first half, a 35-yard touchdown pass to Jerry Jeudy in the first quarter, before getting back on the board again in the fourth quarter with the game out of hand. However, missed field goals and an inability to capitalize on opportunities left Cleveland trailing most of the game.
The Steelers, meanwhile, made the most of their chances. Benton’s interception set up a 1-yard touchdown run by Najee Harris. Kicker Chris Boswell continued his reliable season with field goals from 30 and 54 yards.
While Russell Wilson struggled in the yardage department at quarterback, recording 158 passing yards and two touchdowns, Pittsburgh’s defense and special teams kept the game in control, improving their record to 10-3. Apart from Winston’s flop, the Browns’ display in Pittsburgh highlighted the frustrations of a team that has now fallen to 3-9. Cleveland will look to salvage what’s left of the season.