Tim Tebow threw eight passes for the Jets last season. Chances are, barring an injury to future Hall of Famer Tom Brady, the backup celebrity-quarterback will never see meaningful action under center with the Patriots this season.
Tebow has spent the majority of training camp working out as a quarterback –participating in meetings, practicing in a red, non-contact jersey and running the third-team offense — but coach Bill Belichick could still have a few tricks up his sleeve that the Jets may have envisioned, but weren’t able to implement effectively.
“I think that we’ll use Tim wherever we feel like he’s best for the team,” Belichick said at the start of camp, “and I know that’s what he’s committed to doing as well. Whatever that is.”
Tebow has spent time catching balls with skill position players, perhaps a sign of some use at tight end, but this past week he’s returned to special teams, where he spent part of last season with the Jets as the most famous punt protector in NFL history.
Tebow had mixed results, giving up a blocked punt, while also executing some fakes, but Patriots punter Zoltan Mesko has been impressed with Tebow’s ability to play so many different roles.
“He’s a very versatile athlete and a pretty good quarterback,” Mesko said, according to the Boston Herald. “I think last practice [Saturday] was the first time I kind of [was] involved more in the situations and was into the game more. He did a great job. I’m not really commenting on other teammates, but he’s definitely bringing something else to the plate.”
Mesko also joined the countless teammates and coaches over the years to appreciate how he helps off the field.
“He’s a pretty good guy,” said Mesko. “I love what he brings to the team and what he brings to the field.”