On Thursday, the New York Jets executed one of the most dramatic trades in their franchise’s history twice.
In the late evening, Gang Green struck a deal with the Broncos to acquire the polarizing quarterback Tim Tebow, following a near-miss earlier in the day, as reported by the New York Post.
In return for Tebow and the Broncos’ seventh-round pick, the Jets sent their fourth- and fifth-round selections in next month’s draft to Denver.
Initially, the Jets believed they had successfully completed the trade for Tebow but soon realized that his contract obligated them to send over $5 million back to Denver. Upon this realization, they hesitated, which resulted in a delay for the trade.
This hesitation allowed the Jacksonville Jaguars to swoop in and attempt to bring Tebow to his hometown. Ultimately, the Jets and Broncos reached an agreement to share the $5 million payment.
Around eight hours after it was initially believed the trade was finalized, the deal was completed.
It’s been reported that the Broncos felt the Jets had made the original trade without fully understanding the details of Tebow’s contract. This contract required the Jets to reimburse the Broncos for money advanced to Tebow the previous summer, totaling $5.06 million in relation to his 2012-14 salaries.
As word of the deal’s mishap spread throughout the NFL, the Jets became a subject of ridicule.
“How on earth do you miss that payment on the contract? How?” an executive from another team questioned.
John Elway, executive vice president of football operations for the Broncos, remarked that Tebow left an “extraordinary” legacy with the organization.
“His time in Denver will always hold a special place in Broncos history,” stated the Hall of Fame quarterback.
“As a former player, I understand that the past two weeks were challenging for Tim. He faced a difficult situation, and I commend him for handling it with the same first-class manner he exhibited throughout his career in Denver.”
In recent days, the Jets had become fascinated with Tebow and acted quickly when the Broncos signed four-time MVP Peyton Manning, igniting significant discussion before the trade finally occurred.
The Jets view Tebow as a formidable competitor capable of fulfilling multiple roles within their offense, including running the Wildcat formation, which is a favorite of Rex Ryan.
Additionally, the presence of Tebow is expected to boost business, as the Jets will likely see an increase in jersey sales and overall popularity.
Critics of the trade, however, highlight his limited abilities as a traditional quarterback and the baggage he brings along.
Moreover, this is a team aiming to mend its locker room dynamics. Tebow is known to be a potentially divisive figure, albeit through no fault of his own, according to the Post. Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie expressed his disapproval of the Jets trading for him both on Tuesday and again on Wednesday morning prior to the trade’s announcement.
by Buford Balony
