Tim Tebow. (Getty Images)
The drafting of Geno Smith last weekend prompted the Jets to jettison Tim Tebow on Monday, GM John Idzik said this morning.
“Drafting Geno in the second round, it became apparent that we had six quarterbacks — something had to give,” Idzik told ESPN’s “Mike & Mike” radio show. “We thought it was appropriate that that time to release Tim.”
Idzik didn’t deny a report that another reason for Tebow’s release was that some members of the coaching staff were “warming” to the idea of giving him another shot after his essentially non-existent role under former offensive coordinator Tony Sparano last season.
“Tim’s a pretty easy guy to warm to,” Idzik said. “He works extremely hard at his craft, and he’s a great guy to have around. So that type of comment would not come as a surprise.”
Idzik said the 90-man offseason roster limit also factored in the decision because having six quarterbacks — even at the bigger roster threshold — was too much of a luxury.
“We’re going to have to make tough decisions like that going forward,” Idzik said.
Idzik confirmed that the Jets received trade inquiries for Tebow before his release. A league source said that interest went nowhere because all the teams wanted Tebow to change positions to tight end, but he refused.
“Suffice it say, especially during free agency and leading up to the draft, there’s a lot of kicking tires,” Idzik said of trade calls for Tebow.
Idzik said the Jets never asked Tebow to change positions since Idzik was hired this winter to replace the fired Mike Tannenbaum.
“While I was here, he was slated as a quarterback,” Idzik said.
Despite Smith’s selection, Idzik is not guaranteeing the West Virginia product the Jets’ starting job this year even in light of the organization’s increasing distate for Mark Sanchez.
“It’s an open competition, not only at quarterback but at all positions on our roster,” Idzik said. “Mark’s in the competition, and we fully expect it will help him get better.”
Idzik praised Sanchez for his attitude and dedication this offseason.
“Mark has been very even keel,” Idzik said. “He’s focused, he’s energized, and he’s been very positive.”
bhubbuch@nypost.com