Indianapolis, IN (SportsNetwork.com) - Jameis Winston told reporters that he will take part in throwing drills during Saturday's NFL Combine amidst reports that the 2013 Heisman Trophy winner is dealing with discomfort in his shoulder.
"I'm a competitor and I know what I'm capable of doing, so I will be throwing (Saturday) at the combine," Winston said at a press conference that was delayed until Friday after the former Florida State star quarterback underwent additional tests on his right arm.
Multiple outlets, including NFL.com, reported that Winston spent part of Thursday having electromyography tests performed to determine if any weaknesses existed in his throwing shoulder.
Winston said Friday that his shoulder checked out clean and he was given clearance to throw.
"I had an MRI just like everyone else," he said. "I've been playing football since I was four years old and my shoulder has been fine."
Winston, considered a strong candidate to be taken with the No. 1 overall choice in this April's draft, had spent the previous two springs as a relief pitcher on the Florida State baseball team in addition to his role as the Seminoles' starting quarterback, where he amassed a 26-1 record over two seasons and led the school to a BCS national championship as a freshman.
The 21-year-old also acknowledged the various character concerns and off-field issues, including a well-publicized sexual assault investigation that was later dismissed, that have made him one of the more polarizing players in this year's class.
"I know I've made mistakes. I know I have a past," Winston said. "But right now it's about me moving forward and earning the trust of these 32 teams out there."
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