New England Patriots quarterback Tim Tebow caught some passes during practice. Let the speculation begin. After the quarterback was seen participating in both running drills and passing exercises, many wondered just how the Patriots were planning on using Tebow throughout the season. Bill Belichick is not wasting his time addressing this issue, but offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is at least telling reporters not to read too much into it.
McDaniels is well-aware of the talents that Tebow possesses. He was mainly responsible for the quarterback being drafted by the Denver Broncos and likely played a large part in his signing with the Patriots after getting released by the New York Jets. ESPNBoston.com reports that Tebow was running drills that could suggest the Patriots might try and use in the same role the Jets attempted to create for the quarterback. However, McDaniels told media the dills were mainly used to give Tebow experience in open-field running, something he might have to do at quarterback.
"Anybody that is a potential runner, that can actually do something with the ball in his hands - something good - we always put them [in the drill]," McDaniels said. "I think Matt Cassel and [Doug] Flutie and some of those other guys that I've had a chance to coach, I think we did the same types of things with them. Again, certainly we know Tim has a skill set that some of these other guys don't possess in terms of his ability to run with it, or scramble with it when he has it in his hands. He's just practicing his open-field running [and] I know the defensive guys enjoy the challenge of trying to get him to the ground. I think it's good for everybody and a normal procedure that we go through in training camp."
McDaniels also noted that he was using some defensive backs in running drills, so it is natural for players to get their hands on multiple things during camp. Belichick stressed that Tebow would remain at quarterback when the team first announced signing him to a two-year contract, but since has remained coy on the topic.
"I think we'll use Tim where ever we feel like is best for the team," Belichick said. "I know that's what he's committed to doing as well, whatever that is."
Belichick complemented the quarterback on his practice habits and overall work ethic, but would not answer any further questions on the matter. McDaniels seems to also address Tebow from a quarterback standpoint, so it will be interesting to see the role he plays once the season begins.
