Attorney Says Jameis Winston is not Ready for the NFL, Needs to Mature

Top prospect and former Heisman Trophy winner, Jameis Winston is reportedly not ready to play in the NFL, his attorney, David Cornwell, said. Cornwell explained that his assessment was based on Winston's behaviors off of the field and not his football playing ability.

"He's ready to be an NFL player on the field," Cornwell, who has advised and represented the young quarterback before told Villanova's Moorad Sports Law Journal Symposium on Friday. "But he's not ready to be an NFL player off the field."

Cornwell added, "I don't think anyone is ready. No one is ready for this (NFL) world when they come into it."

While at Florida State, Winston had many publicized off-field problems. His biggest one was when he was accused of sexual assault. However, no charges were ever filed and Winston's violations of the University's conduct code were cleared. Other issues include stealing, shouting obscenities on campus and a BB gun fight.

After all of these incidents, Winston's reputation was definitely damaged. Despite his image, several mock drafts have Winston going to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who have this year's first pick. The quarterback has reportedly wowed many scouts during workouts and has separated himself from the rest of the players in the draft.

"We have to assist him in growing and developing as a man," Cornwell said. "And it's not going to be easy. If he messes up again, he's done."

The NFL draft takes place between April 30 and May 2.