New York Jets’ backup quarterback Tim Tebow was sidelined in Thursday’s 49-19 loss to the New England Patriots after suffering two fractured ribs in the Jets’ game at Seattle two weeks ago.
Tebow dressed for the game and was available, but did not play either at quarterback or as punt protector. The team was initially concerned about letting him dress for the game.
“I had to do a little bit of talking just to dress but I just want to be there for my teammates in case they needed me in an emergency situation,” Tebow said.
Tebow played in three offensive plays last weekend against the St. Louis Rams and has continued to practice despite the injury. Jets coach Rex Ryan said Tebow’s condition began to worsen through this week, affecting his breathing. The Jets kept him on the injury report.
“It just seemed like a couple of days ago I was noticing,” Ryan said, “I’m like, man, you could tell he was hurting, and it never sounded like he was, you know maybe a little, his breathing was a little different. I was standing there and I was like, well shoot, I’m not going to play this kid. I wouldn’t play my son if it was that kind of situation, but to Tim’s credit, he wanted to be there for his team.”
Tebow remains unsure of how long the healing process will take, but admits that his ribs need the rest. Last year when playing with the Denver Broncos, he broke a rib in the playoff game against the Patriots and needed the offseason to recover.
While standing on the sideline Thursday night, fans began to chant his name as the Jets allowed the Patriots to score five touchdowns in the second quarter.
Fans may not get their wish this season to see Tebow replace Mark Snachez as the starting quarterback because Ryan is sticking with his starter. He feels Sanchez gives to team the best chance to win.
“Mark will be the starting quarterback this week and we’ll go from there,” Ryan said.
For now Tebow’s availability for Sunday’s Dec 2. game against the Arizona Cardinals remains in question.
