Maybe New York Jets general manager John Idzik didn't quite say what he meant. Maybe, when he insinuated to season ticket holders in a conference call that Tim Tebow would be on the roster for training camp, it came out sideways. That's what the word out of Jets land was afterward.
Maybe the plan really is what we all thought -- that Gang Green will try like crazy to see what the trade market is for Tebow, only to eventually cut him.
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But in my mind, Idzik had the right idea on Monday. In my mind, it was a Freudian slip.
Idzik said of the quarterbacks, "Let it play out this offseason and into training camp. I think that'll be healthy for all concerned, including Tim." When you press Jets people on that, they wonder if that's what he really meant. But I'm not ready to ignore the line of thinking Idzik perpetuated.
In my mind, that's what Idzik should have meant.
The Jets should bring Tebow into training camp in 2013.
The media is tired of Tebow. He won't be the focus of our world like he was last year. It won't be a circus atmosphere every time he shows up at his locker. The time has come and gone for us to hang on his every word. He'll never be just a guy, but he'll be more of just a guy this time than last time.
Yet Idzik's words should not have been lip service. Yes, the Jets are open to trading Tebow. They've made no secret of that. That's their ideal.
But it would be better for the team if the rumblings I'm starting to hear are true. On the field, he still could be viable. It would help the team if the Jets were serious about keeping Tebow on the roster through training camp, amping up competition and trying to see if they can gain a return on their investment.
Because why not?
Remember, the Jets originally traded a fourth- and sixth-round draft pick for Tebow, then negotiated a deal to pay $2.53 million of his signing bonus.
The internal rumblings you'll hear from time to time go like this: They have Tebow. They've already given up the picks and spent the money. Why cut him? What's the hurry?
Take him into minicamp and be open to taking him to training camp in July. See what you have. For real this time.
The Jets no longer are worried about Sanchez's feelings. They've already done their best to avoid saying he'll be the starter, so that's clear. And if Tebow's presence still overwhelms Sanchez, then Greg McElroy will be more than happy to stand under center.
Talk to Denver Broncos people and they can't believe former offensive coordinator Tony Sparano didn't give Tebow a chance, no matter how bad he was in practice. They still think Tebow can win games, just like he did in Denver. New offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg has never shied from a challenge, no matter how unconventional.
Sure, the Jets might cut Tebow later this month, like we all assume. But it's finally time for the team to try one more time to make good on its investment. If you listen closely, that's what it's starting to sound like.
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