Tim Tebow has a very good chance at making the Philadelphia Eagles roster, according to NFL.com reporter Ian Rapoport. Tebow is battling Matt Barkley for the third string quarterback spot on the roster.
Late in August, Eagles sources said that Barkley will be shown off and that he can be had for the right deal, according to ESPN's Dianna Marie Russini. The Eagles' next preseason game is against the Jets Thursday night, and the game could prove to be more important to Barkley than Tebow.
Many believe Tebow has already made the team, including Rapoport. Tebow has 97 passing yards this preseason on 19 passes. Most of Tebow's positive influence comes on the ground as he opens up running lanes for backs and can break through tackles. Tebow is averaging five yards per carry this preseason and has a touchdown.
While Tebow has put his work in on the ground, Barkley has been doing it in the air, throwing 306 yards this preseason. The only issue is that Barkley has no touchdowns and an interception, which may be leading head coach Chip Kelly in a certain direction.
Kelly loves his fast-paced offense, and the Eagles have arguably the best running back combination in the league. Tebow could be kept for a third string spot, but it also could provide a special formation at the goal line. When Tebow was the quarterback for the Denver Broncos in 2011 they led the league in rushing.
While Sam Bradford is the obvious number one choice for starter, Tebow is proving at least to Kelly that he deserves and NFL roster spot.
