Tim Tebow to Every NFL Team: What Are the Chances?

With fans from every team craving to get Tim Tebow in their team’s colors pleading like teenage girls beg for Miley Cyrus tickets, I’ll try to not only handicap the Tebow sweepstakes, I’ll attempt to predicit where he’ll end up.

We’ll grade each team on a scale from one to five, listed below, on his chances of landing there:
1-Not a chance
2-Very unlikely
3-Possible if other needs are filled or have poor value
4-Will try and take him
5-They’ll fight and trade to get him

While I’m not sold on Tebow as a future NFL starter, we’ll take a look at where he might fit best long term with a team as both a quarterback and a locker room presence.

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St. Louis Rams

Don’t worry, I won’t say he should be the first overall pick in the draft.

However, if the Rams don’t go with a quarterback with the top pick in the draft, as I don’t think they will, then come the top of the 2nd or 3rd round, they will likely find their future there.

Tebow would be better served with a team where he could develop for two or three years, but if his pro day ends up being successful, the Rams may want to make a splash with the team down in the dumps, and Tebow is the perfect publicity stunt.

Tebow Chance Grade: 3

Detroit Lions

The Lions are on the up and up as a franchise, having a strong nucleaus on both sides of the ball and now starting to lure free agents. On a side note, watch for the Lions to compete with the Bears and Packers for a wildcard spot behind the Vikings in the NFC North.

But, as for their chances in Tebow, I wouldn’t bank on it. With Stafford their future at quarterback and still having a need of youth on both sides of the ball, they simply don’t have the luxury of taking a character guy.

Tebow Chance Grade: 1

Tampa Bay Bucs

Similar to the Lions’ chances of getting Tebow, the Bucs really don’t have a role that would fit what they need in a draft prospect.

They have their quarterback of the future and depth behind him. They even have a tight end in Kellen Winslow, so there is no fit for Tebow at all. The team already generated buzz last year with the 1st round quarterback, and the only reason I could see the Bucs giving Tebow a look is for the Florida fan crowd.

Tebow Chance Grade: 2

Washington Redskins

This may have a better chance than many people first think of. First off, this depends obviously on whether new coach Mike Shanahan wants Bradford/Clausen in the first or redevelop his offensive line.

If he chooses the later, then the 2nd round for the Redskins could get very interesting. Shanahan wants a winner? Check for Tebow. There is a quarterback already in place for at least another year? Check for Tebow. A good running game and some young receivers in a more west coast system? Check for Tebow.

With Daniel Snyder loving to make a big splash every off-season, Tebow could bring the focus back to the bottom feeders that are the Washington Redskins in the NFC East.

Tebow Chance Grade: 3.5

Kansas City Chiefs

As it goes with most Top 5 picks, they can’t afford to take any luxury picks if they hope to get out of the bottom of the draft, especially for a team who’s been in the Top 5 the last two seasons.

With Matt Cassel paid like their future quarterback, they don’t need one to develop. They could look at Tebow as a tight end, but he likely won’t take to that well.

Scott Pioli did help build the Patriots franchise and a lot of that was taking high character guys and versatile athletes, but even Pioli knows that rebuilding franchises need talent before they can start helping their chemistry for the most part through the draft.

Tebow Chance Grade: 1

Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks, on paper, look like a potential playoff team each year, but still end up in the Top 10, at least for the past two years. And with Walter Jones gone, Matt Hasselback at age 35, and most of their past top players like Shaun Alexander gone already, they need some future leaders on their team, especially offense.

Tebow in the 1st could be a little much, but Pete Carroll knows about finding a winning quarterback from his days at USC. They could keep Hasselback around for another two season, which could be perfect for developing a future quarterback.

If they don’t take Bradford or Clausen in round one, Tebow could be on their target in the top of the 2nd round.

Tebow Chance Grade: 3

Cleveland Browns

Mike Holmgren, new czar of football in Cleveland, has a lot of work to do. He has only a few talented weapons, and the Browns were so putrid on offense last year, that their “wildcat” back and return man was their feature talent.

He’s already been rumored to try and find a quarterback in the trade market, but I don’t know if he’ll find a starter other than if he can somehow swing for Donovan McNabb. I know he’s not planning on building around Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson, as both could be gone by the start of the 2010 season.

It’s not a great fit Tebow, as he’ll be asked to play early with lackluster talent, but Holmgren knows he needs a winning mentaility in the locker room and that could add a new player for Browns fans to get excited about. Still, it’s a long shot.

Tebow Chance Grade: 2

Oakland Raiders

What a fit this would be, huh? Al Davis, known for ignoring character, on the field production, and basically anything but combine numbers going after arguably the best human being ever (hyperbole).

Tebow doesn’t really fit the Raiders system, which is having a huge arm, demanding huge amounts of money, and being okay with poor pass blocking. It’s not set yet whether Al Davis still thinks “…JaMarcus Russell. He is a great player”, but I think Raiders fans know if Russell is a bust yet or not.

Tebow Chance Grade: 2

Buffalo Bills

Similar to the Redskins, the Bills could be a surprising fit for the Bills. With Brian Brohm, Ryan Fitzpatrick and Trent Edwards all back in the fold for 2010, hopefully one of them can step up as a starter.

If they don’t take (or get a shot at) Bradford or Clausen, the Bills still need to be in the market for a quarterback at some point in this draft. Their first proirty has to be left tackle with Brad Butler retiring and the team having a poor offensive line as it is, so the middle rounds could be where they find their future.

Tebow would bring the TO-like enjoyment for people in Buffalo, but he could be asked to be the savior too early in his career. It’s a possibility, but a guy like John Skelton or Dan LeFevour make more sense in the 3rd-4th round region than Tebow.

Tebow Chance Grade: 3

Jacksonville Jaguars

I’ll reveal it right now, this is the projected most likely spot Tim Tebow will end up. So much so that the Owner has already said that he’s interested in getting Tebow to Jacksonville.

And the match is nearly as good as it gets. Tebow will stay in Florida, where the Jaguars can get Gator fans and maybe start selling some seats. He can learn and develop behind another heady, athletic quarterback in David Garrard for at least a season or two. He has a left and right tackle of the future in place, a stud running back, and a defense that won’t put too much pressure on him.

This really is the perfect it and it may be not if but when. With no 2nd round picks, I could see the Jaguars trying to either make a move to get to the early 2nd round, or move down in the 1st round and nab him around the mid-20s.

Tebow Chance Grade: 5

Chicago Bears

The reason the Bears are making such a huge splash in free agency is that they’re without a 1st or 2nd round pick, spent on Jay Cutler and Gaines Adams respectively. So, with that in mind, they need to improve their team without the draft,but also focus on getting good players in the middle to late rounds.

Therefore, with the Bears in winning mode, I don’t think they can afford to take a chance on a character, role player guy who doesn’t fit any needs they have.

Tebow Chance Grade: 1

Miami Dolphins

If Tebow was available for the 2010 NFL Draft, he would have been the perfect match for the Dolphins. Similar to the Jaguars, he’ll bring even more attention to the Gator fans and would increase the business aspect of the franchise tremdenously.

But, with Pat White in the fold already as their back-up, developmental quarterback behind their franchise guy Chad Henne, there really is not role for Tebow on this team. Taking a quarterback in the 2nd round for 4 straight years doesn’t seem like the right move to push this team to the top of the AFC East.

Tebow Chance Grade: 1

San Francisco 49ers

With a set of teams in the NFL possibly in need of a quarterback, the speculation is near endless when it comes to which free agent, trade possible, and draft eligible quarterbacks in this 2010 off-season.

The 49ers appear to be set on Alex Smith, with David Carr also a possible guy to compete for the job, but I’m not sure if either is the future of the organization.

Sam Wyche, former 49er quarterback coach of Joe Montana and head coach of Boomer Esiason, is sold on Tebow being a future NFL starter, and that may be enough for the 49er alum and ownership to make a strong case for bringing him in.

Tebow Chance Grade: 3

Denver Broncos

While they surprised the early part of the year with a 6-0 start, their lack of a great quarterback and defense hurt them in the end.

With the 12 pick, they will likely address the defense first, possibily looking at Rolando McClain, Brandon Spikes, Sean Weatherspoon, Dan Williams, or Earl Thomas. But, this article is focused on an offensive player, and that is where the Broncos could look in the 2nd round.

Josh McDaniels helped develop Matt Cassel into a near playoff quarterback, and did the same with Kyle Orton. With a proven winner like Tebow and an offensive mind like McDaniels, it could mean success long-term.

Tebow Chance Grade: 3

New York Giants

What better a place for a superhero like Tim Tebow than Gothem City itself? Well from a football aspect, it may be over half the league.

With one of the highest paid quarterbacks in Eli Manning their unquestioned leader and a host of developmental quarterbacks behind him, they have no role really for Tebow to enter.

They have taken a quarterback in the draft the past three seasons, so the trend could continue if they don’t feel they have many needs. But with offensive line, defensive line, and linebacker questions, Tebow won’t be around until their 4th pick.

Tebow Chance Grade: 2.5

Tennessee Titans

Some have compared Tim Tebow to Vince Young, and honestly it isn’t that far off. Both we’re the stars of their college program in a spread offense, both are outstanding athletes, and both need/needed a few years to develop into a pro quarterback.

However, because they are so similar and because ownership is still in love with Vince Young, Tebow is very unlikely for Titans fans. They are probably going to keep a veteran who can start in a pinch behind Young, with a latter round guy to develop.

Tebow Chance Grade: 1

Carolina Panthers

Maybe another intriguing fit, I don’t think the Panthers’ brass has the luxury of taking a quarterback now with everyone on their last leg.

With Jake Delhomme gone, they are either set with Matt Moore at quarterback or are looking for a veteran via free agency/trade (McNabb possible destination?) to compete with Moore.

Tebow is a long term project who actually would work if the Panthers had time and patience to develop him, as he’ll have a good offensive line, running game, and a defensive secondary that won’t let games get out of hand.

Tebow Chance Grade: 2.5

Pittsburgh Steelers

Initially the thought process for predicting Tebow’s future was that he would end up in with one of the better teams who would take him with a luxury pick, the Steelers being one of them.

But reports are that Dennis Dixon is a favorite in Mike Tomlin’s mind and they could be developing him as the long term back-up/spot starter behind Big Ben.

Tebow would be helped going to a winner with a strong nucleaus and a great front office in front of him, and he could fill that H-Back role and, if Big Ben went down, we know Tebow can take the sack punishement that Big Ben faces. But, with Tomlin liking Dixon, Tebow’s a long shot to still be there when the Steelers are done filling needs.

Tebow Chance Grade: 2

Atlanta Falcons

Formerly one of the worst franchises when Mike Vick was sent to the pound, the Falcons quickly turned things around and are now a constant NFC title contender.

With Arthur Blank always looking for high character guys and a coaching staff built for developing quarterbacks, Tebow looks like a fit. But adding another young quarterback won’t help their playoff chances much and he may end up being more of a distraction than a help.

Tebow Chance Grade: 1

Houston Texans

Maybe a bit more likely than you might think, the Texans run the same offense as Mike Shanahan, so when a player fits his mold, they fit the Texans as well for the most part.

Schaub was extremely productive this past season, but the Texans have yet to reach a playoff berth and he has been injury prone over his career. Rex Grossman could be gone this year (reportedly to Washington with Shanahan) and they’ll need a guy to develop. Tebow can be a power runner in an option attack, doesn’t have to worry about making calls at the line very much, and will have some offensive weapons around him.

If Tebow makes it to the 3rd round, the Texans could jump on him.

Tebow Chance Grade: 3.5

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals have been known to give questionable character guys (Chris Henry, Chad Ochocinco, Matt Jones, Odell Thurman, etc.) tons of chances, so the likelihood of them giving a high character, charity man a shot not likely, right?

From a football aspect, it won’t be a terrible move. Palmer is their guy, no question, but he’s had injury troubles in the past and they really don’t have a young back-up to fill his shoes if he goes down.

He’ll have at least 2 years to develop and will add a leader to this locker room full of rap-sheets.

Tebow Chance Grade: 3

New England Patriots

When a guy comes of college, has great character and is an intriguing playmaker, the Patriots are always in a position to grab him. Guys like Dexter McCluster, Brandon Graham, and Tebow all fit that mold.

Matt Cassel was their project, he’s now a starter. Kevin O’Connell was their next project, but he unexpectedly got released a while back, and they are left once again without a project. Tebow will learn behind a guy who knows a thing or two about winning, and if he does develop into a starting caliber guy, he’ll either inherit a great team or give the Patriots another trade chip.

With a low 1st rounder and three 2nd rounders, and not having four major needs, they could take a few luxury picks, one of them being Tebow.

Tebow Chance Grade: 4

Green Bay Packers

The Packers follow a draft philosophy that I believe in, which is to draft or bring in a top quarterback post-draft free agent every off-season. This gives the team new life and a project to watch unfold, as well as drive the current young quarterbacks to mature quicker or be weaved out.

However, with Aaron Rodgers emerging as one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL and Matt Flynn now a favorite as the long-term backup, the Packers may not have to take a quarterback early on in the draft.

With youth questions along the offensive line and secondary, as well as a need for defensive playmakers, they don’t have the luxury of grabbing Tebow with where he’s likely to go.

Tebow Chance Grade: 1

Philadelphia Eagles

Similarly to the Patriots, the Eagles are known for getting out of the 1st round and looking for great values in the 2nd round and beyond. Most of their defense is filled with mid rounders like Stewart Bradley, Victor Abimiri, and Macho Harris and their offense with guys like DeSean Jackson, LeSean McCoy, and Jason Avant.

However, with three of the top 40 quarterbacks in the NFL (in my opinion), it’s unlikely they’ll be in the market for a quarterback. But, with trade rumors surrounding all of them, it’s possible that McNabb and/or Kolb and/or Vick could be on their way out by the 2010 NFL season.

Tebow Chance Grade: 1.5

Baltimore Ravens

Another great drafting team, the Ravens offense is starting to come together as a unit that could be good for years to come. They have a great offensive line nucleus; they have their quarterback of the future, one of the deepest running back sets, and Anquan Boldin now to go along with the NFL’s most consistent defense the past 10 years.

While they could go for another receiver in the draft early on, outside of cornerback and inside linebacker help, they don’t have many needs as they already are one of the favorites in the AFC.

With Troy Smith pleading for his way out and no other solid backups in case Flacco goes down, Ozzie Newsome could look at Tebow if he falls to the bottom of the 2nd round.

Tebow Chance Grade: 3.5

Arizona Cardinals

Kurt Warner’s gone, and the Cardinals are stuck with a more developed version of Tim Tebow in Matt Leinart. Both won the Heisman trophy, both were on great teams where they were icons and the feature players, and both have lackluster arm strength and questionable NFL starting potential.

The Cardinals are likely to bring in another veteran to test Leinart and maybe a quarterback late in the draft to develop. But bringing in Tebow won’t help enough to keep this team at the top of the NFC West.

Tebow Chance Grade: 1

Dallas Cowboys

If it wasn’t for the Cowboys taking Stephen McGee in the 4th round last year to be their “project” and back-up quarterback, they would definitely be in the market for Tebow.

But the offense is really aging and although it was productive, it quickly could get ugly at receiver and the offensive line with injuries or inconsistent play.

I won’t completely rule it out because aside for youth at those aforementioned spots, they don’t have many needs. But from a football aspect, they’re not a fit at all for Tebow.

Tebow Chance Grade: 2

San Diego Chargers

It seems every season, the Chargers are among the favorites to get and win the Super Bowl, but seem to collapse in the playoffs. But, in my mind, their window for dominanced has closed for a little while with LT officially gone and other needs at receiver and the offensive line being issues.

If they had a stable force at running back and were a lock to keep all their receivers, then Tebow would be an option to develop behind Rivers. But with many needs to fill to stay atop the AFC West, this is not the off-season for luxury in San Diego.

Tebow Chance Grade: 1

New York Jets

In my opinion, the Jets front office deserves some sort of NFL award, as in one year’s time, they found their franchise quarterback, their running back of the future, defensive leader, a fiery coach who lures in big time free agents, and a top talent receiver.

Now, with every key part of the team filled, they can chance after specialty guys, depth guys, and luxury guys, which is where Tebow fits in.

Kellen Clemens could be aching for a way out, and he could be an appealing guy to bring in to, let’s say, the Browns for a late round pick. Either way, Tebow is a great fit as he can be a wildcat guy, a project behind Sanchez, and another big name to the big city.

Tebow Chance Grade: 2.5

Minnesota Vikings

There is no question in my mind that the Vikings are looking long and hard at this quarterback draft class. I have a feeling that if Jimmy Clausen falls past 10th in the draft, which could happen, they’ll make a move by dealing their 1st,3rd, and a solid starter like Ray Edwards to get up a take him.

More likely, however, they will target a developmental guy to learn behind their veteran starter next season (I’d bet more on it being Favre and Sage Rosenfelds) and have him be the focus in 2012/2013. Tebow could be that guy and with his teammate Percy Harvin already there, it’s definitely a team to watch.

Tebow Chance Grade: 4

Indianapolis Colts

First it was Jim Sorgi. Now it’s Curtis Painter. Both of the back-up projects to Peyton Manning don’t look like much more than career 3rd stringers in the NFL.

It might be wise to bring in a guy who can actually take the reigns from Manning in 2-3 years when he begins to hit the downslide of his career (projected of course).

Tebow might still be there at the end of round 2, and if he is, the Colts will likely give him a long, hard look.

Tebow Chance Grade: 2

New Orleans Saints

The last stand for Tebow in the 2nd round, I can’t see him leaving the 64th pick. Whether the Saints take him to develop behind Drew Brees or a team doesn’t want to risk hoping he’s there in the 3rd round, he’ll be highly coveted at that spot.

I don’t think the Saints will trade up for him, as they can really help their defense with these 1st round picks of the draft, probably at linebacker and defensive line. But if Tebow’s there, Sean Payton might see a golden opportunity to make the fans of New Orleans love him even that much more.

Tebow Chance Grade: 3.5

Summation

All in all, there are many possibilities where he could land. The Jaguars are my favorites to get him, but the Patriots, Ravens, Vikings and Texans all likely won’t let him slip out of the 2nd round.

Because the Jaguars don’t have a 2nd round pick, they could be the most intriguing team to watch in this sweepstakes. Do they have the firepower to trade up? Will they have to deal their 2011 1st rounder?

On the other hand, the Patriots and Texans both are in the mid 2nd round, prime Tebow spot. And the Ravens and Vikings could trade down from their 1st round spots to the 2nd round and scoop him up there.

Every team will evaluate him as a quarterback first. Many teams will have him on their board. Some have the need and role for him on their team. Few have both the need and means to take him. Only one will get Tebow.

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