Jameis Winston Autographs’ Authenticity Called Into Question

An authentication firm rejected signed Jameis Winston memorabilia because of questions about their validity.

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Jameis Winston’s case against allegations that he was paid money to sign memorabilia (a clear NCAA violation) just received a huge boost.

ESPN’s Outside The Lines is reporting that the authenticity of said memorabilia is now being called into question:

"The autograph authentication company that has certified more than 1,000 jerseys, photos, mini helmets and other items as bearing the valid signature of Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston received the items only after an initial authentication firm rejected the job because of concerns about their legitimacy, sources told “Outside the Lines.”Five sources who spoke to “Outside the Lines” on the condition of anonymity said that James Spence Authentication got the items only after competitor PSA/DNA backed out of the February signing with Winston. PSA/DNA did so after being told that it couldn’t witness the quarterback signing the items in person, sources said."

According to ESPN’s report, the Florida State quarterback agreed to a signing with dealer Donnie Burkhalter in a hotel room. However, Buckhalter says Winston then wanted to change the location and would only sign the memorabilia if the dealer and authenticator were not present.

"So, sources said, Burkhalter loaded the Florida State items into his truck and returned later with the items signed, telling those waiting back at the hotel that he had to give the batch of items to a person who then got the items signed inside the apartment.Those who had invested in the signing — paying Burkhalter between $30 and $40 per autograph — were very suspicious, sources said."

It was at this point when PSA/DNA couldn’t confirm the autographs were authentic and backed out.

While many assumed because of Winston’s reputation that he sold his autographs for money, the latest sketchy details might indicate otherwise.

Obviously, further developments for this story are to come. But it appears the tide is turning in Winston’s favor.

James Spence Authentication is maintaining its stance that the items are legitimate.

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