Tebow can’t catch a break

The horrible tragedy of the Tim Tebow experiment in the NFL took another sad turn this week when it was announced that Peyton Manning would be signing with the Denver Broncos. Not only was that a slap in the face to the man that just led them to a playoff appearance and then upset of the Pittsburg Steelers after all hope was lost, but then they shipped him off to New York where he’ll likely sit behind Mark Sanchez for the next three years or, at best, challenge him for playing time. 

Now I’m not one of those people overly in love with the Tim Tebow mania, but this kid has done everything he can to prove that he knows how to win games in the NFL. He’s a natural born leader and a winner. 

I’m also not one of those haters that want to dissect every aspect of his game that is lacking from what a normal quarterback should look and play like. Being a huge Pete Rose fan (the player, not the person) I understand that you don’t have to have tremendous skills to be a good player. 

Rose often played above his talent level because he had a desire and a passion to be better than everyone else. Tebow brings that same kind of effort to the football field. He may not look like Tom Brady when he throws, but all that matters to him is that he outscores the other team. 

After waiting patiently, he finally got a chance to prove he could play quarterback in the NFL while in Denver. This team was horrible and he was able to inspire them into winning some games and ultimately their division. Their defense was good before he became the starter, but because of him they became even better. And because he knew how to make plays happen, he was able to put enough points on the board to get them the win. 

If I’m Tebow right now I’m disgusted at the way things have transpired this week. I understand the Broncos and Manning had to make a business decision, and they made a good one. But to trade him to a team where he won’t have the opportunity to step right in and be starter just makes me sick. 

They could have easily sent some compensation to the Jaguars to make sure that deal got done. And according to a report, the Jaguars made a better offer, or at least one that wasn’t any worse. Tebow helped that Denver franchise make a lot of money even when they were a bad team because fans still poured in to buy his jersey and watch him play. 

Being back in Florida he would have been adored by his fans and immediately had the chance to compete for a starting position. The Jets on the other hand have just signed Mark Sanchez to a nice three year deal solidifying the fact that he’s their quarterback of the future. 

I’m not sure what the Jets plans are with Tebow, but I doubt the two are on the same side. This entire process was just a mess and a real failure to the sport and all parties involved. Sending him to his home state would have created a positive buzz and enthusiasim this league has never seen. Sending him to the circus that is in New York can only cause a negative stir and bad publicity for the sport and Jets’ franchise. 

You can follow Jake on Twitter at: @j8a1k0e or on his MLB Braves blog at: http://bravesandmore.mlblogs.com

Jake also writes for Gloves Off Sports Business.