Tim Tebow has made a good impression on Philadelphia Eagles head coach Chip Kelly this summer.
With just one preseason game left, it appears the most popular backup quarterback in the league has a legitimate shot to remain on the team’s final roster heading into the 2015 NFL season.
Kelly spoke about Tebow on Monday, specifically pointing out his improved throwing motion and accuracy.
“I’ve seen Tim improve since he’s gotten here,” Kelly said before Monday’s practice at the NovaCare Complex (h/t Mark Eckel of NJ.com). “He’s improved his throwing motion a great deal. Since we got him back in April, he’s worked very hard at that. Sequencing his throwing motion, so I think he’s been more accurate.”
In the three preseason games so far, Tebow has completed 52.6 percent of his passes for 97 yards (5.1 yards per attempt) with no touchdowns or interceptions. The improved accuracy Kelly speaks of hasn’t really shown up in these games, as many of his passes have been wild.
Tebow has scored one rushing touchdown, but he’s also fumbled twice in these contests.
Based on his preseason action, one might assume Tebow hasn’t really improved much at all since his time with the New York Jets. Kelly, however, doesn’t see it that way and notes the huge opportunity the quarterback has in Week 4.
“He’s had a good camp,” Kelly said. “He’s got another big week this week. And then playing (Thursday) against the Jets. He’ll be working hard for that.”
Given everything we’ve heard from Kelly this summer regarding the enigmatic Tebow, it seems like the quarterback will remain on the roster as a third quarterback behind Sam Bradford and Mark Sanchez. Many teams keep only two quarterbacks, but Tebow’s versatility is unique.
It’s likely we will see Kelly utilize Tebow in goal-line situations and on two-point attempts during the regular season. And, if Tebow can get into the end zone on a regular basis, then Tebowmania will once again sweep across the nation.