TAMPA, FL - NOV 12: Injured quarterback Jameis Winston is excited for starting quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) as Fitzpatrick walks back to the sideline after throwing a touchdown during the regular season game between the New York Jets and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on November 12, 2017 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

Report: Fitzpatrick could remain starter Week 4; Winston still part of Bucs' plans

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' quarterback situation remains a popular topic.

Ryan Fitzpatrick could remain the starter even after Jameis Winston returns from his three-game suspension in Week 4, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

From @gmfb Weekend: Jameis Winston is the future in Tampa Bay, but #Bucs QB Ryan Fitzpatrick could still keep his job past Week 3 https://t.co/TUl1PgM2ex pic.twitter.com/8W4D6tA6Uc
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 16, 2018

Fitzpatrick won NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors in Week 1 for his sterling performance in the Bucs' upset of the New Orleans Saints. However, Winston remains a big part of the team's future, Rapoport adds.

Fitzpatrick could keep the job if his strong play continues this week versus the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles and next Monday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Following Winston's reinstatement, the Bucs will face the Chicago Bears on a short week before a bye in Week 5.

That schedule could buy Fitzpatrick more time as the starter before he hands the reins over to Winston.