The Denver Broncos on Wednesday agreed to trade quarterback Tim Tebow and a seventh-round choice in the 2012 NFL Draft to the New York Jets for selections in the fourth and sixth rounds of this year's draft.
Tebow played 23 games (14 starts) for the Broncos in two seasons and completed 167-of-353 passes (47.3%) for 2,838 yards with 17 touchdowns and nine interceptions (75.1 rtg.). He added 165 rushes for 887 yards (5.4 avg.) with 12 touchdowns on the ground. In two playoff games, Tebow completed 19-of-47 passes (40.4%) for 452 yards with two touchdowns (90.0 rtg.) in addition to rushing 15 times for 63 yards (4.2 avg.) and one score.
In his second NFL season in 2011, Tebow took over as Denver's starting quarterback after Week 5 and led the Broncos to a 7-4 record down the stretch to capture their first AFC West Division title since 2005. He threw for a career-high 316 yards with two touchdowns in Denver's 29-23 overtime win against Pittsburgh in its AFC Wild Card Game.
Tebow, who was selected by Denver in the first round (25th overall) of the 2010 NFL Draft from the University of Florida, executed six fourth-quarter comebacks in 14 career starts with the Broncos, including five in 2011 to tie Eli Manning and Alex Smith for the NFL lead. He also is tied with Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez for the third-most games (7) with at least one passing and one rushing touchdown since 2010.
The Broncos currently own seven picks in the 2012 NFL Draft. Below is a breakdown of their selections:
DENVER BRONCOS 2012 NFL DRAFT CHOICES
|
Rd. (#) |
How Acquired |
|
1 (25) |
Own pick |
|
2 (57) |
Own pick |
|
3 (25) |
Own pick |
|
4 (13) |
From N.Y. Jets |
|
4 (25) |
Own pick |
|
5 (2) |
From St. Louis |
|
6 (18) |
From N.Y. Jets |
STATEMENT FROM BRONCOS EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF FOOTBALL OPERATIONS JOHN ELWAY ON QB TIM TEBOW:
"Tim Tebow deserves an enormous amount of credit for what he accomplished and how he carried himself during his time with the Broncos. From taking over a 1-4 team and leading it to the playoffs to energizing our fans and this community, Tim left an extraordinary mark on this organization. His time in Denver will always hold a special place in Broncos history.
"As a former player, I know the last two weeks were not easy for Tim. He was put in a difficult situation, and I commend him for how he handled it with the same first-class manner he displayed throughout his career in Denver.
"Our goal was to do the best thing for Tim and the Broncos, and I believe the opportunity that presented itself with the New York Jets accomplishes that objective. Tim made a lot of strides last year and has a very promising career ahead of him. If anyone is willing to put the work in to be great, it's Tim Tebow.
"I have a great deal of respect for Tim and the positive impact he makes both on the field and in the community. He has a bright future in this league, and I'm hopeful he will enjoy continued success with the Jets."
STATEMENT FROM BRONCOS HEAD COACH JOHN FOX ON QB TIM TEBOW:
"Tim Tebow brought an incredible spirit and spark to our team that helped us turn the season around. Along the way, he earned the trust of his teammates and coaches while inspiring our fans. His competitiveness, clutch performances and will to win played an instrumental role in our team earning a division title and advancing in the playoffs.
"Tim works as hard as any player I've ever coached, and that work ethic will continue to serve him well with the Jets. He goes out to practice early, stays late and comes in on his day off. Tim does everything in his power to get better. He's not afraid to work, and we saw the results of his commitment last season.
"For good reason, Tim has always had a great following. He handled that aspect exceptionally during the amazing run we had. The poise and focus Tim displayed were remarkable and speak volumes for the strength of his character.
"A player and person like Tim don't come around very often. He is real and he walks the walk. I'm looking forward to watching him continue his career with the Jets, and I wish him the very best."