by Kent Sterling
Tim Tebow buys his wheat grass one blade at a time, just like the rest of us.
Quarterback controversies get unsure coaches fired, and two things are beyond question with the New England Patriots – there is no quarterback controversy, and Bill Belichick is not unsure.
What Tim Tebow will do for the Patriots is anyone’s guess. He could be an H-back, a tight end, a fullback, a change of pace wildcat option, or a defensive tackle long before he is going to threaten Tom Brady for playing time.
Any other team would have brought the unending barrage of questions to the coach, GM, receivers, and damn near everyone else involved with the organization. With the Patriots, Belichick don’t play that.
Tebow will show up ready to work, and Belichick will be ready to teach. And ESPN will be there with its cameras because for reasons having to do with shared religious beliefs, people cannot get enough news about the discarded Florida Gator.
No one has ever questioned Tebow’s character or leadership, but his ability to deliver a consistent ball has been in doubt since he was drafted in the first round by the Denver Broncos.
Tebow’s career as a starter began with a bang as he won eight of his first 11, but as defenses adjusted, the Broncos lost four-of-five, including two playoff games. Last season was spent with the Jets, where he played sparingly behind Mark Sanchez before being released at the end of the season.
In 33 games, Tebow has completed 48% of his passes and rushed 197 times for 989 yards.
If the constant media din surrounding the recently mediocre Patriots wasn’t loud enough for you last year, this signing should take it up a notch.
I have commented before that Tebow should be signed by someone – not as a starting qb, but perhaps a multi-dimensional back. It doesn’t surprise me that NE signed him. Belichick is no dummy. He will see if there is a profitable use for him. If not, he will cut him loose. In my opinion, this chance with the Pats will determine Tebow’s career in the NFL.