At this point, the Tiim Tebow story can only be described as mind-boggling. How else can one describe Tebow's NFL journey thus far? The A.P. reported today that the Jacksonville Jaguars are no longer interested in Tim Tebow's services.
The AP reports that althought the Jets are likely to release Tim Tebow, the Jaguars have changed gears and will not pursue the Florida native anymore.
David Caldwell, the Jaguars recently acquired General Manager, was quoted as saying:
"I can't imagine a scenario in which he'll be a Jacksonville Jaguar — even if he's released," he says.
Huh?
It wasn't long ago that the Jags were in negotiations with the Broncos to land Tebow. Apparently, the Jaguars now, too, have no use for this superbly gifted athlete. But....is this really all that surprising?
Though the naysayers ranted and raved last season about Tim's inability to perform at the pro level, Tebow proved them wrong.
Like the bright, on-coming light of a powerful locomotive blazing through a dark tunnel, Tim Tebow - against all odds - arrived and stunned, not only the NFL last year, but the entire nation.
The nation was captivated. It was Tebow-mania! Denver kept winning, and winning, and winning; fighting their way into the playoffs.
By season's end, Tim Tebow had NFL fans and non-fans alike, Tebowing all over the country. People were amazed, awe-struck by Timmy's incredible ability to mount comebacks, to pull the Denver Broncos from the depths of a lost and meaningless season and into the NFL post-season.
It was increadible, in deed.
Adding even more fervor to the Bronco's amazing season, Tebow and crew pulled off an utterly improbable victory over a veteran Steeler's team in the first round of the playoffs.
Success! Success! Success! Amazing! Amazing! Amazing!
Right?
So, what is the problem?
Not long after their loss to the Patriots in the second round last year, John Elway and the Broncos decided that it was time to go in a different direction.
Certainly, based on Peyton Manning's remarkable comeback season this year, it would be ludicrous for anyone to question the Broncos' decision to make that move. It was - most would agree - a smart football decision. It was risky, given Peyyton's neck injury and subsequent surgery. It was bold, but - looking back - it was a terrific decision.
Nevertheless, the success that Tebow and the Broncos experienced last season would - by most people's estimation - be more than enough to land Mr. Tebow in another NFL town this year, and in a capacity that would certainly take advantage of Tebow's amazing physical abilities and relentless determination. Right?
One of the things that sets Tim Tebow apart from others, is his incessant determination to make a difference, to be an excellent teammate, and to push onward, fighting for success - on and off the field. He's not a drunkard, a womanizer, or a drug-addict. He's a respectful, clean-cut, young man.
Who doesn't want a guy like Tebow on his team?
Well, as we know by now, the New York Jets - to the delight of most New Yorkers - made headline news by taking a chance on Tebow.
The nation was once again enamored with this move.
How will Tebow handle the New York media? How will the Jets use Tebow during the game? Will he compete against Mark Sanchez for the starting job? Was he just used as a fan-grabber, or commercial prop?
What amazing feats will Tebow accomplish as a Jet?
These were the types of questions many had on their mind as the 2012 season kicked off.
What transpired, however, as the season went along, was obviously anything but spectacular. As we all know by now, the Jets made absolutely no use of Tebow. NOTHING! ZERO! NADA!
His stats for 2012?
39 passing yards. 0 touchdowns.
What gives? Why didn't Tebow get a chance to shine? Why?
The Broncos' decision to get rid of him - although in retrospect, a great football move - at the time, it was certainly very surprising to many, considering the success the Broncos experienced; considering the huge difference Tebow made while on the field with his grit and competitive spirit.
Then, the inexplicable actions of the New York Jets came about. What werer their, apparent, plans for Tebow?
Shove him to the back of the locker room, into the shadows, where there will be no media attention, no opportunity for him to shine, and no reason for fans to follow. Tebowing was put to rest this season.
Why? What happened to the "wild-cat"? 39 passing yards???
Now, the Jaguars - one of the very few teams who showed even slight interest in Tebow - is off the wobbly bandwagon.... That's perplexing...
As much as the football critics hammered Tebow for his mechanics, his throwing motion, and decision-making ability, something appears to be far more of a liability to teams, and the NFL in particular: Tim Tebow's open and unapologetic Christian faith.
Time and time again, during press-conferences and interviews, Tebow made mention of, and thanked, his "Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ".
For Christians, this was/is amazing; to see a young professional athlete be so humble and so eager to make known that he has put his faith and trust in God above all things.
Could this a problem for the NFL? Is Tim Tebow too "Christian" for the league?
How else can his experince be described? What else is responsible for he tunwillingness by NFL teams to give Tebow at least a fighting chance at making their roster?
What else?
Tebow is an amazing, tough, determined, and gifted athlete.
Why is he left dangling in the wind like a dried-up, autumn leaf? Why has America been robbed of Tebow-mania? Why is Tim Tebow being shoved to the shadows of the NFL?
Is it Tebow's fault because he's selfish - as some at ESPN would suggest?
There is a verse in the bible, spoken by Jesus and directed at his followers:
"If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you." - John 15:18-19
How else would one explain the obvious disdain aimed at Tebow and expressed regularly by ESPN's Merril Hoge?
Hoge doesn't only critique Tebow's physical performance, but relishes in blasting the young QB. Has anybody asked Hoge what his religious beliefs are? His answer, I'm sure, would be quite telling....
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