Tim Tebow is signed to the New England Patriots for two years after coming over as a free agent after his release by the Jets, but does that guarantee him a roster spot after training camp as the season begins?
While many have speculated that due to the Aaron Hernandez's issues he will be used at tight end, but so far that has not appeared to be a possibility and Bill Belichick has said he will be used as a quarterback. The Jets had no idea what to do with Tebow last season despite bringing him in with great fanfare and using secret packages in training camp to prepare him for the season and he ended up appearing in just 12 games with two starts.
The team barely used him at all and he finished with 32 rushes for 102 yards with six pass completions for 39 yards and zero touchdowns. He spent time on special teams and while the Patriots could use him there as well, chances are he will remain at quarterback. Brady's job is obviously not in trouble at all and Belichick likes to reward hard work, which is why Mallett will be the option after being a good solider since getting drafted a few years ago.
The Patriots view their 53-man roster as very valuable, which is why Tebow may not make it if he can't show that he brings something to the table for the team. But why would they sign him if they don't intend to keep him on the roster? That question leads one to believe that he will make it and since it is so early in his career, the Pats can continue to develop him at their own pace. Mallett has proven to be a smart and capable backup and if Tebow proves himself, he might be able to vault over him eventually.
Tebow was the top story for the Patriots until Hernandez was arrested and now that will be the frame that the team is looked at all season. Hernandez is facing life in prison for the murder of Odin Lloyd and the Patriots image took a big hit with it.
