The Star-Ledger-USA TODAY Sports
To the surprise of no one, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Mark Sanchez does not seemed thrilled with the news that Tim Tebow will be competing for a roster spot in the ensuing months. To drive his point home even further, he made sure everyone is aware that Tebow has no shot of making the Eagles’ 53-man roster.
“He’s obviously a great guy, he works hard. And we needed another guy to throw while Sam’s [Bradford] still recovering,” Sanchez said, according to CSNPhilly.com. “So that’s the reason [for the signing], at least as explained to me. We’re excited about the upcoming year and I think we have a great group.”
For those who may be unfamiliar with the relationship between Sanchez and Tebow, the two spent one year together with the New York Jets during the 2012 season. Many believed Tebow would push Sanchez for the starting quarterback position, but instead, he recorded just 32 pass attempts while mostly holding the clipboard. No one knows exactly what happened between the two behind closed doors, but it was always clear Sanchez never felt comfortable with Tebow being brought in by the Jets, even if it turned out to be nothing more than a publicity stunt.
Sam Bradford is the expected starter, while Sanchez and Matt Barkley will compete for backup roles. For that reason, many believe it is hard to imagine there is anyone room for Tebow in Philadelphia. With that said, reports have surfaced of Tebow performing at a higher level than he did when he was with the Jets three years ago. Still, it is no secret the former collegiate standout has had major issues with accuracy, which could cost him a final roster spot if he has not improved that area of his game.
Regardless of what happens, the Eagles are primed for a stellar battle at the quarterback position in training camp, which is something head coach Chip Kelly has to be excited about. Even more evident, Sanchez better bring it in camp because Tebow is not making a return to the NFL just to please the media. He is determined to be on the Eagles in some capacity by the end of the preseason.
Michael Terrill is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelTerrill, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
