Tebow Cut: Fit in Ohio?
Aug 29, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels congratulates quarterback Tim Tebow (5) on a touchdown pass against the New York Giants in the fourth quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports
Some were surprised when the New England Patriots signed Tim Tebow in the off-season. Most were less surprised today when they cut him. The signing of Tebow should not of been a surprise as HC Bill Belichick has a habit of drafting, signing and trading for ex-Florida Gators who played for Urban Meyer. This pipeline probably will continue with Meyer now at The Ohio State University. As connections are vital in many low level maneuvers its important to look at whether there is a fit for Tebow in the great state of Ohio. Tebow’s spiritual foundation would fit in a generally conservative state more so then in more liberal states. Below we look at his fit within the state of Ohio.
Cleveland Browns
There are a few reasons that Tebow with the Browns could make sense. First is connections, GM Mike Lombardi worked under and is close with Belichick so picking up a cut player from New England would not be a surprise. The Browns do not have an established starting QB so bringing in competition makes sense. CEO/President Joe Banner worked for Philadelphia when they brought in Michael Vick, a mobile QB. Banner started his off-season coaching search with Chip Kelly and discussed wanting to be ahead of the curve offensively, notably discussing the read option that Tebow has the ability to run. In the end expect the Browns to pass on signing Tebow. The Browns will roll with Brandon Weeden with veteran Jason Campbell and young Brian Hoyer backing him up. Tebow’s lack of downfield passing doesn’t fit with Norv Turner’s attack either.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals often seem to be where players with limited NFL success, either due to character or talent, are bound to sign. Often this has played out well for the Bengals as Vonteze Burfict, Adam Jones and others have been successful. The Bengals are set at the starting QB position with Andy Dalton, who has been solid but unspectacular in leading the Bengals to the playoffs. The Bengals also have Josh Johnson as a backup QB. Johnson has a good arm and the ability to run the spread option when needed. Don’t expect Marvin Lewis to allow the biggest off the field circus come to town even if it would stuff noted penny pinching owner Mike Brown’s pockets.
Arena Football
Cleveland Gladiators play in the Arena Football League. They could provide Tebow with the opportunity to rehab his image and take advantage of his skills. Based on his stated goals of playing QB in the NFL it would be a surprise if Tebow would decide to play arena ball at all. Arena football also would focus on his weaknesses as precise timing passing tends to dominate in the smaller arena field.
The Ohio State University
As noted before Tebow played for HC Urban Meyer at Florida. Meyer often speaks of the motivation, desire and drive of Tebow. Working for Meyer at OSU could allow Tebow to stay in football, get back to his roots and focus on the basic skills at the QB position. He could provide a great mentor for starting QB Braxton Miller. Based on his extreme service history and desire to help others Tebow could be invigorated by helping college students even if its only for a year. Of all of the Ohio options this is the most likely possiblity. Whether its as a consultant, just stopping by a few times during the year or actually being hired on staff Tebow could have the best of all worlds by returning to team up with Urban Meyer.
It is very possible that Tebow does none of the above, never returns to the NFL or football in general and focuses all his time on his Christian endeavors. What do you think Tebow should do? What options will he have?