Every season, the return of injured stars is one of the most anticipated parts of the NFL's opening week.

Running backs Christian McCaffrey and Derrick Henry headline the group in 2022. Quarterback Jameis Winston and wide receivers Chris Godwin and Michael Thomas are among the other big-name talents stepping back onto the field.

But will these players regain their previous form?

The players included missed at least eight games in 2021 or are returning from a serious injury that sidelined them for most of the offseason.

Jameis Winston, QB, New Orleans Saints

Jameis Winston looked like a different player in 2021.

During his stint as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' starter—and even in college at Florida State—he was a productively reckless quarterback. Winston averaged 3,947.4 yards, 24.2 touchdowns and 17.6 interceptions in his five seasons with Tampa.

Last year, however, he tossed just three picks in 161 attempts. Winston helped the New Orleans Saints start 4-2, throwing for 1,114 yards and 13 touchdowns in a reasonably efficient manner. But in the seventh game, a torn left ACL ended his season.

Longtime Saints head coach and offensive play-caller Sean Payton retired, so there is justifiable concern on the surface about what will happen next. The offense is in the capable hands of coordinator Pete Carmichael, though. He's held the role since 2009 and occasionally been the primary play-caller.

It's not controversial to say Payton is a major departure, but what the Saints lose on the headset they've atoned for with first-round receiver Chris Olave and free-agent signing Jarvis Landry.

Winston won't be an All-Pro, but he's a solid QB1 who should avoid a risk-filled passing game and keep New Orleans in the playoff race.

Verdict: Buy