Tebow Time in Philly

"Just in terms of the skills Tebow has exhibited on the field, does he fit as a possible quarterback in Kelly’s vaunted offensive scheme? Yes. And no. And, more than anything: It depends." — Bill Barnwell, "Grantland" writer.

The last NFL jersey I bought was a No. 15 Denver Broncos Tim Tebow jersey. I wore it for the better part of two seasons, then the dream ended. Tebow was traded to the Jets and, not long after, found his way out of the NFL.

After three years of Peyton Manning — including a Super Bowl berth — it could be easy to forget what Tebowmania was like. But I was a fan in college, and one of the few who was elated when the Broncos drafted him in 2010.

That first season only saw glimpses — mostly at the end of the year, when the corpse of the Kyle Orton-led offense had collapsed, leading to the implosion of the Broncos. The following year, Tebow got his chance to lead, and he did it well.

The Broncos were, at times, a chore to watch. But Tebow was electrifying, winning eight games, the division title, and a playoff game before being crunched by the Patriots. It was the kind of run that made you think he had a future in the NFL. Was he rough around the edges? Yes. Was he a poor passer? Yes. Did you love watching him? YES!

But the Broncos didn't feel the same. Tebow was the choice of the failed Josh McDaniels administration, and soon he was washed away with the changing of the tide. What should have been proof there was something to work with — after all he did win a division and a playoff game — instead became his only bite at the apple.

After a poor year with the hot mess known as the Rex Ryan Jets and a pre-season try out with the Patriots, Tebow's dream appeared to have collapsed into a professional nightmare. Until Sunday, when Chip Kelly — a gambler with a lot to prove in Philadelphia — signed Tebow to a one year contract.

Tebow is by no means guaranteed to make the team — he's currently fourth or fifth on the depth chart depending on who you ask. And even if he makes the team, he might not play. But all he's wanted is a shot, and this could be his last.

I, for one, am glad to see he's getting another chance to share his heart and talent, and another chance to show he can be a quality NFL player. And, if nothing else, I have a whole new interest in Eagles games.