Tim Tebow gets in gear in Jets’ locker room and learns that he will have a much bigger role than simply backup QB
special role as new member of Gang Green
The Jets' big-picture vision for Tim Tebow is coming into focus.
Tebow, perhaps the most versatile “backup quarterback” in NFL history, will be doing far more than holding a clipboard for Gang Green this coming season. Although new offensive coordinator Tony Sparano kept his plans for Tebow close to the vest last week, it’s been speculated that Tebow will be used in Wildcat/read-option packages and possibly line up as an H-back and fullback.
Now, it’s clear he’ll play a role on special teams as well.
Special teams coach Mike Westhoff told the Daily News he will use Tebow on his unit. Westhoff has already discussed his vision with Tebow, who was amenable and eager to contribute on special teams, according to the coach.
Although Westhoff didn’t reveal his exact plan, he called Tebow a “more potent Brad Smith” with an ability to make a difference on special teams.
Last week, Sparano said that Tebow “can play anywhere from one to 20 snaps.
“As far as how we’ll use Tim or what we’ll do with Tim that way, we’re going to keep that to us right now,” Sparano said.
The Jets punted an average of 5.8 times per game last season, so it’s conceivable that as many as 30% of Tebow’s snaps will come on special teams.
Tebow, who was “outstanding” doing basic offensive drills in front of coaches last week, according to Rex Ryan, was recently voted the 95th best player in the league by his peers in an NFL Network player poll.
“That’s really saying something about the young man,” Ryan said about the poll results. “Everybody recognizes the competitiveness. The guy’s a winner, no question. People get tired of me saying it, but how do you not describe this guy as a football player? That’s what he is. He’s got size. He’s got strength. He’s got speed. And he can throw the football.”
Ryan has attempted to diffuse any potential quarterback controversy by proclaiming several times that Mark Sanchez is the team’s undisputed starter. However, Ryan is also excited to see how Sparano can maximize Tebow’s unique skills within the confines of his offense.
The Jets will have a “Tebow Package” that will include read-option elements. Sparano and general manager Mike Tannenbaum brushed off the fact that the Jets drafted three players from option-style offenses in college as “coincidence” rather than a calculated strategy to bolster that package.
