Tim Tebow's role on the New York Jets has been debated all offseason, much like the debate going on in Alabama about a new piece of legislation that bears the name of the former star quarterback and Heisman trophy winner from Florida.
According to the Southeast Sun, the "Tim Tebow Bill" is being debated in the state legislature in Alabama and the proposed act would allow home-schooled students to participate in public school sports teams. The bill has Tebow's name as an inspiration, as he was a home-schooled student in Florida and still was able to play quarterback for his area public school, leading the team to a state championship before taking the Gators to the national championship.
The bill already cleared the committee in the Senate in March and now moves closer to legislation after the Senate Education Committee voted 3-2 in favor of it. The law would allow home schooled kids to play on sports teams and participate in athletic and band activities, but there is also a provision that states that they much meet the same standards as the students in public school to be eligible to participate.
The bill was first brought up a few years ago and was beaten back as lawmakers requested changes to the language, which has been done this time around, specifically stating that it is only certain programs and that students must comply with requirements. Both sides of the debate have been speaking on the bill, including New Brockton athletic director Jim Bob Striplin, who said that he thinks it is best for the students to be in school as athletes.
"I prefer to have all of my athletes here at school," Striplin said. "I feel like part of any young (student's) education is being able to function in a daily school atmosphere."
Others in the area were concerned with academic performance and standards as well as issues with team meetings, weight training and daily participation in team activities. State Sen. Gerald Allen voted for the bill, but also said that home schooled students' grades and performance needs to be monitored.
Tebow has been shopped around by the Jets this offseason, but so far no takes have come up. One intriguing option could be in a deal for Matt Flynn, as the Seahawks have expressed interest in trading him. The Jaguars, Raiders and Bills have all started talking about a deal, but head coach Pete Carroll could make an interesting move if he decides to flip him for Tebow.
The money is not that far off and the Jets would like a new starter over Mark Sanchez, while the Seahawks could use Tebow as a backup option for Russell Wilson. Carroll is known for his eccentric ideas and this could be one that is beneficial to both sides.
