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About the Author: Mark Cook

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Mark Cook currently is the director of editorial content and Bucs beat writer and has written for PewterReport.com since 2011. Cook has followed the Buccaneers since 1977 when he first began watching football with his Dad and is fond of the 1979 Bucs team that came within 10 points of going to a Super Bowl. His favorite Bucs game is still the 1979 divisional playoff win 24-17 over the Eagles. In his spare time Cook enjoys playing guitar, fishing, the beach and family time.Cook is a native of Pinecrest in Eastern Hillsborough County and has written for numerous publications including the Tampa Tribune, In the Field and Ya'll Magazine. Cook can be reached at [email protected]
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After nearly a month of silence since the announcement of a three-game suspension by the NFL for violating its Code of Conduct policy, Bucs quarterback Jameis Winston finally addressed the situation following the opening day of training camp on Thursday from the new indoor practice facility.

Here is a transcript of Winston’s press conference in its entirety:

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Photo by: PewterReport.com

(On if he apologized to the team)
“I talked to them yesterday and I apologized to them. I don’t want to be a distraction, I just want to focus on the season and move forward.”

(On not taking first team reps and when he was informed about that)
“I got mixed in there. Again, it’s not about me, it’s about us. So I’m going to focus on being the best teammate I can be, and ball out on the football field.”

(On how he could put himself in another position like this even after the Florida State issue)
“Again, I’m just focused on moving forward. That’s all I can do is grow and learn from this situation. It’s a learning experience, so I’ll work hard as I’ve continued to work hard both on and off the field.”

(On how long he’s stopped drinking for after putting out a public statement)
“I’ve made a lot of positive strides since I’ve been here. So I’ve got to continue to grow as a man, as a person, as a leader, as a father. I know I can’t put myself in situations like that.”

(On what he would say to fans that are disappointed in him and don’t think he should be their quarterback anymore)
“I understand why they’re disappointed. I’m disappointed. I should have never put myself in that situation, all I can do is learn and grow. When I talk to the fans I say continue to support this team, continue to support me. Since I’ve been here my main goal was to grow as a leader, be a huge advocate in the community, and I’ve done that. I’m going to continue to do that.”

(On the NFL report)
“They made their decision. There’s nothing I can say beyond that. They made a decision, and I have to look at myself and grow and learn from this experience.”

(On if he’s in a program or being treated for alcohol or substance abuse)
“Again, I’ve made a lot of positive strides since I’ve been here. So I got to continue to grow, and when I cross that road, I’ll have to face it.”

(On whether he should still be considered the face of the team in front of the fans)
“It’s not about me. I’m going to do whatever I can to dive into this community, dive into my teammates and be a great support system for them. My whole thing as a player is to focus on my teammates and not myself individually.”

(On what he’s learned from all this)
“I’ve just learned that you can’t put yourself in these situations and that’s the most important thing. This happened after my rookie year, I think I’ve made a lot of positive changes since then.”

(On the reaction of his teammates)
“I’ve had full support from ownership on down. Definitely addressing my teammates personally, I know that meant a lot to them, because it’s about them. I don’t want to be a distraction, I want to put this behind me, behind us and move forward.”

(On his understanding that the team needs to get Ryan Fitzpatrick ready for first three games)
“Yes, as a teammate first, I understand it’s about the team. I’m going to be there for Fitz as much as I can. It’s also about getting Ryan ready as well. I’m going to take my position and my influence on this team is going to be positive and I’ll be their best support system they can have.”

(On taking a step back and letting Fitzpatrick lead)
“You know this actually gives me an opportunity to take a step back and lead from behind the scenes. I actually get a chance to observe my teammates and help from behind the scenes and let Ryan take the show. Ryan has been here and been in this situation before so I’m blessed to have a player of that caliber taking on the ranks.”

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