The Philadelphia Eagles believe quarterback Tim Tebow's work with throwing coach Tom House over the last two years has really paid off.
Two summers ago, Tebow was fighting for a roster spot with the New England Patriots when both team were in Philadelphia together for joint practices. At the time, Philly didn't see much from Tebow. They have since changed their tunes.
"We had exposure to him live when he was with New England, when they practiced here," Eagles vice president of player personnel Ed Marynowitz said Thursday. "When we worked him out, we saw a great deal of improvement with him."
The Eagles inked Tebow to a contract on Monday. But in a smart move, given the circus that follows the controversial QB everywhere, the team will not make him available to the media until all players report in May.
"We've got 68 players that are on our roster right now," Marynowitz said. "Tim's one of 68. He'll have an opportunity to compete for a roster spot here. His role will be determined by his performance. We're excited that he's a member of the organization, and we're looking forward to him competing."
Contrary to some rumors, Tebow will compete for a job at the quarterback position. The Eagles currently have three signal-callers ahead of him in Sam Bradford, Mark Sanchez and Matt Barkley. However, Barkley has failed to impressed since being selected in the fourth round of the 2013 draft and may lose his job as the third-string QB.
Tebow had success with the Denver Broncos back in 2011, even winning a playoff game. Eagles head coach Chip Kelly may have designs to use him in certain sub-packages, possibly in two-point conversion scenarios. The NFL is expected to vote on changes to the point-after-touchdown rules in the near future.
Marynowitz, though, said that was "not entirely" the reasoning behind the signing.
"If that does come to fruition," Marynowitz said, "and there's a role there, depending on his performance, he may have a role in that capacity."
