After only winning two games last season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers didn't tab Jameis Winston with the No. 1 draft pick to keep him on the bench.

On Friday, Bucs coach Lovie Smith announced that Winston will be the starting quarterback working with the first team when Tampa Bay begins training camp Saturday.

Smith told ESPN that he "would never put a guy in that position if he wasn't ready for that" and that Winston is ready.

"Jameis Winston will be our starting quarterback," Smith continued. "He'll take first reps tomorrow. We're excited about that." 

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It's a good first baby step to Winston ensuring his rookie year is a productive one. In addition, starting in training camp will allow the former Florida State University QB to build an early chemistry with wide receivers Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson.

Following Saturday's open to training camp, Winston and the Bucs will open their pre-season in Minnesota against the Vikings on Aug. 15.

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(Photo: Brian Blanco/Getty Images)