Thus far in the NFL preseason, Tim Tebow’s done zilch to demonstrate he’s earned a future role in the New England Patriots’ on-field plans, though the owner calls him, “a joy to be around.” In the wake of the Aaron Hernandez mess, the Boston Herald’s Karen Gurigan is not above suggesting that even if he’s thoroughly overmatched as a pro QB, Tebow might be a better face of the franchise than, say, a guy in an orange jumpsuit.
Even if there’s a grand plan down the road for Tebow and he was signed as a two-year project, or merely a goodwill ambassador for the locker room for the time being, it’s still a roster spot. How can Belichick justify keeping him over someone who could have an impact in every game on special teams, or more? How does Tebow warrant a spot over a player now on the bubble such as Brandon Bolden? Or Michael Hoomanawanui?
That’s the burning question. At this point, four days before the final roster cuts are made, can someone still change Belichick’s mind, if it’s even necessary in Tebow’s case? Sure sounds like it.
“I think there are a lot of conversations still going on. I don’t think there’s a whole lot that’s set,” Belichick said. “There’s a lot of things we’re still kicking around. Some things will take care of themselves; some things will settle themselves. Other things we’ll have to make a decision on. When it comes time to make that decision, we’ll get as much information as we can, and try to make the best decision we can for the team.”
But is Tebow best for the team? On the field, the answer is a resounding “no” based on the evidence provided. It’s probably an overwhelming “yes” if the question was asked with a qualifier to include his presence in the locker room or in the community.