:Tim Tebow

Tebow was born in the Philippines to American parents. In the late 1960s, Tebow's parents – Pamela Elaine (née Pemberton) and Robert Ramsey Tebow II – met while attending the University of Florida.{{Cite web |last=Andreu |first=Robbie |date=January 31, 2006 |title=Team Tebow |url=http://www.gainesville.com/article/20060131/GATORS01/201310351 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129030412/http://www.gainesville.com/article/20060131/GATORS01/201310351 |archive-date=November 29, 2014 |access-date=October 1, 2016 |website=The Gainesville Sun}}{{Cite book |last=Desmarais-Zalob |first=Simon |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6a78AgAAQBAJ&q=%22Robert%20Ramsey%20Tebow%20II%22&pg=PA16 |title=First, I'd Like to Thank God |date=2014 |publisher=iUniverse |isbn=9781491724583 |access-date=October 1, 2016 |via=Google Books}} During that time, his mother was a freshman and his father was a sophomore. The couple married on June 12, 1971, before Pamela's graduation from the university.{{Cite web |last=Richardson |first=Suzy A. |date=October 7, 2007 |title=Coaching character |url=http://www.gainesville.com/article/20071007/NEWS/710060317?p=1&tc=pg |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307161738/http://www.gainesville.com/article/20071007/NEWS/710060317?p=1&tc=pg |archive-date=March 7, 2013 |access-date=November 10, 2007 |website=The Gainesville Sun}} In 1985, the family moved to the Philippines where they served as Baptist missionaries and built a ministry. During the Tebows' stay, Pamela contracted amoebic dysentery and fell into a coma. While recovering, she discovered that she was pregnant. The medications used to treat Pamela caused a severe placental abruption. Doctors expected a stillbirth and recommended an abortion, which was illegal in the Philippines even in severe cases; the Tebows decided against it. On August 14, 1987, Pamela Tebow gave birth to Tim Tebow in Manila. When Tim was three years old, his family moved from the Philippines to Jacksonville, Florida.{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TQ4ZapV36MIC |title=Tim Tebow:a Promise Kept |publisher=Barron's Educational Series |isbn=978-1-4380-8390-2 |page=[https://books.google.com/books?id=TQ4ZapV36MIC&dq=%22his+family+moved%22&pg=PT11 11]}}

File:Tebow army all american.jpg]]

Tebow is the youngest of five children. He is of Belgian (Walloon) origin. His ancestor Andries Tebow sailed to America from Bruges in the 1680s.{{Cite web |last1=Branch |first1=John |last2=Begg |first2=Jack |date=March 23, 2012 |title=Jets' Tebow Can Trace His Lineage to New Jersey |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/24/sports/football/amateur-genealogist-says-tebow-has-roots-in-north-new-jersey.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211113234818/https://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/24/sports/football/amateur-genealogist-says-tebow-has-roots-in-north-new-jersey.html |archive-date=November 13, 2021 |access-date=November 13, 2021 |website=The New York Times}}{{Cite web |last=Livermore |first=Charles R. |date=March 25, 2012 |title=Tebow Getting Back to His Family's Genealogical Roots |work=Littleton Books |url=http://www.littletonbooks.com/tebow-getting-back-to-his-roots// |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150908020348/http://www.littletonbooks.com/tebow-getting-back-to-his-roots/ |archive-date=September 8, 2015 |access-date=November 13, 2021 |publisher=www.littletonbooks.com}} He and his siblings were all homeschooled by their parents, who instilled the family's Christian beliefs.{{Cite web |title=Tebow Family |url=http://www.btea.org/aboutus.asp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121127021636/http://www.btea.org/aboutus.asp |archive-date=November 27, 2012 |access-date=April 22, 2008 |website=Bob Tebow Evangelistic Association}} Tebow is dyslexic and believes in his uniqueness as a gift from God.Tebow, Tim. (2016). Shaken : discovering your true identity in the midst of life's storms. Colorado Springs, Colorado: WaterBrook. p. 130. {{ISBN|9780735289864}} . He began his high school football career as a tight end for Trinity Christian Academy in Jacksonville. Before the 2003 season, he moved to nearby St. Johns County, making him eligible to play for the struggling football program at Allen D. Nease High School where he could play quarterback. He never enrolled at either school, however: his parents chose to home-school him. Florida law allows homeschooled students to participate on the team of the local high school in the school district in which they live, and private schools such as Trinity Christian Academy are also allowed to let homeschooled students play on their teams.{{Cite news |last=Goodbread, Chase |date=January 1, 2006 |title=She Fought the Law and Tebow Won |work=The Florida Times-Union |url=http://www.flhef.org/newsflashes/tebow.html |url-status=dead |access-date=November 16, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070820120330/http://www.flhef.org/newsflashes/tebow.html |archive-date=August 20, 2007}}{{Cite news |last=Johnston, Joey |date=December 25, 2005 |title=A Cut Above |work=The Tampa Tribune |url=http://gators.tbo.com/gators/MGBQVFCAMHE.html |url-status=dead |access-date=September 17, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070109042139/http://gators.tbo.com/gators/MGBQVFCAMHE.html |archive-date=January 9, 2007}}

Tebow came to national prominence as a junior at Nease, known for his running and throwing abilities, as well as an intense competitiveness. Later that year, he suffered an injury to his right leg late in the first half of a game. At first believed to be suffering from a bad cramp, he actually played the entire second half with a broken fibula, at one point rushing for a 29-yard touchdown. After the game the extent of the injury was discovered and he was held out for the remainder of his junior season.{{Cite web |date=December 8, 2007 |title=Florida QB Tebow was the first underclassman to win the Heisman |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3146714 |access-date=December 8, 2007 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} Nevertheless, he was named Florida's Player of the Year and became a major college football quarterback prospect.{{Cite news |last=Barney |first=Justin |date=December 9, 2005 |title=SAHS' Wiles, Nease's Tebow win state football awards |work=St Augustine Record |url=http://www.staugustine.com/stories/120905/spo_3507267.shtml |url-status=dead |access-date=May 17, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120415014340/http://www.staugustine.com/stories/120905/spo_3507267.shtml |archive-date=April 15, 2012}}

During his senior season, he led the Nease Panthers to a state title, earned All-State honors, was named Florida's Mr. Football and a Parade magazine high school All-American, and repeated as Florida's Player of the Year.{{Cite web |last=O'Shea |first=Michael |title=2006 Parade All-Americans |url=http://all-americans.parade.com/2006_football/story.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090116181221/http://all-americans.parade.com/2006_football/story.html |archive-date=January 16, 2009 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=parade.com}} He played in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas which featured the top 78 senior high school football players in the nation and was shown nationally on NBC television.{{Cite web |last=Drummond |first=Jeff |date=January 2, 2006 |title=Tim Tebow practices in Army All-American Bowl |url=http://rivals100.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=880&CID=497018 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160331142547/https://rivals100.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=880&CID=497018 |archive-date=March 31, 2016 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=rivals.com}}

Tebow was the subject of an ESPN Faces in Sports documentary. The segment was titled "Tim Tebow: The Chosen One", and focused on Tebow's home schooling and missionary work in the Philippines, his athletic exploits, and the college recruiting process.{{Cite web |last=Dobbs |first=Mitch |date=December 13, 2005 |title=Tim Tebow Takes Center Stage |url=http://alabama.scout.com/2/477962.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120228064156/http://alabama.scout.com/2/477962.html |archive-date=February 28, 2012 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=scout.com}} Tebow was also featured in Sports Illustrated on the "Faces in the Crowd" page.{{Cite web |last=Barney |first=Justin |date=December 21, 2004 |title=Tebow in SI's Faces in the Crowd |url=http://www.staugustine.com/stories/122104/spo_2770650.shtml |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716134229/http://www.staugustine.com/stories/122104/spo_2770650.shtml |archive-date=July 16, 2011 |access-date=October 8, 2021}}, St. Augustine Record In 2007, he was named to the Florida State Athletic Association's All-Century Team that listed the Top 33 football players in the state of Florida's 100-year history of high school football.{{Cite web |date=December 13, 2007 |title=FHSAA's All-Century Team |url=https://www.theledger.com/story/news/2007/12/13/fhsaas-all-century-team/25867144007/ |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=The Ledger |language=en-US}} Despite family ties to the University of Florida, where his parents met as students, Tebow considered other schools, including the University of Alabama.{{Cite web |last=Sinn |first=Matthew |date=September 28, 2006 |title=Alabama Gets Close-Up Look at Florida's Tebow |url=https://www.wtsp.com/article/sports/alabama-gets-close-up-look-at-floridas-tebow/67-396163575 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=WTSP.com}}

On January 7, 2007, Tebow was featured prominently in an ESPN Outside The Lines feature on home-schooled athletes seeking equal access to high school athletics in other states. Because a home-schooler's access to public and private school athletic functions varies by state, Tebow and former defensive end Jason Taylor (who was allowed to play at his local high school in Pennsylvania) argued in favor of extending the right to play for local teams to more states.{{Cite web |date=January 23, 2017 |title=House gives 'Tebow bill' preliminary approval |url=https://www.wtvr.com/2017/01/23/house-gives-tebow-bill-preliminary-approval |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=CBS 6 News Richmond WTVR |language=en}} Upon becoming the first home-schooled athlete to be nominated for the Heisman Trophy, he remarked, "That's really cool. A lot of times people have this stereotype of home-schoolers as not very athletic – it's like, go win a spelling bee or something like that – it's an honor for me to be the first one to do that."{{Cite web |last=Lyman |first=Isabel |date=December 6, 2007 |title=Homeschooler Snaps Up Heisman Nomination |url=http://www.usadaily.com/article.cfm?articleID=188229 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071214012233/http://www.usadaily.com/article.cfm?articleID=188229 |archive-date=December 14, 2007 |access-date=December 31, 2007 |website=USA Daily}} Tebow received the 2008 Quaqua Protégé Award as outstanding home-education graduate.{{Cite web |date=January 13, 2015 |title=Tim Tebow: Competing Athletically while Homeschooling |url=https://www.sterling.academy/our-blog/bid/103666/tim-tebow-competing-athletically-while-homeschooling |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=sterling.academy |language=en-us}}{{cite web|url=http://www.quaqua.org/protege.htm|title=Protege Award|access-date=June 7, 2009}}

Tebow was heavily recruited by many college programs and almost accepted a scholarship offer from Mike Shula, then coach at Alabama.{{cite news |last1=Bender |first1=Bill |title=What if Tim Tebow had gone to Alabama, and other decisions that could have changed college football |url=https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/list/college-football-what-if-tim-tebow-alabama-florida-peyton-manning-michael-vick-adrian-peterson/1ambwuifpd3xc1tarty08oon67 |work=www.sportingnews.com |publisher=The Sporting News |date=August 27, 2017 |language=en-us}} Instead, he chose to attend the University of Florida and play for coach Urban Meyer's Florida Gators.[http://web.gatorzone.com/football/media/2011/media_guide.pdf 2011 Florida Gators Football Media Guide] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402035222/http://web.gatorzone.com/football/media/2011/media_guide.pdf |date=April 2, 2012 }}, University Athletic Association, Gainesville, Florida, pp. 74–75, 77, 81, 86, 89, 95, 97, 98, 99, 100–103, 125, 127, 136, 138–140, 141–142, 144, 146–148, 152, 158, 159, 162, 171–173, 186 (2011). Retrieved August 31, 2011. He was a key backup on Florida's 2006 national championship team, won the starting quarterback job and the Heisman Trophy in 2007, led the Gators to another BCS championship in 2008, and quarterbacked them to a 13–1 season in 2009. He served as team captain in 2008 and 2009, and he is the only three-time recipient of the Florida's most valuable player award, having been chosen by his teammates in 2007, 2008, and 2009.{{Cite web |title=Tim Tebow – ESPN MediaZone |url=http://espnmediazone.com/us/bios/tim-tebow/ |access-date=November 1, 2016 |website=espnmediazone.com}}

{{See also|2006 Florida Gators football team}}

Despite a strong showing in his first inter-squad scrimmage, head coach Urban Meyer named Tebow second-string behind Chris Leak.{{Cite web |last=Dooley |first=Pat |date=July 21, 2006 |title=Leak gets nod to first team |url=https://www.gainesville.com/story/news/2006/07/21/leak-gets-nod-to-first-team/31490611007/ |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Gainesville Sun |language=en-US}} A backup throughout the season, Tebow was a significant contributor to the Gators' 2006 success. He made his college debut coming off the bench in a goal line situation against Southern Miss. He rushed for a touchdown on a designed quarterback scramble on his first play.{{Cite web |date=April 18, 2006 |title=Southern Miss vs. Florida |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/scores106/106245/NCAAF701468.htm |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=USA Today}} In his next game, he led the team in rushing yards against UCF.{{Cite web |date=September 9, 2006|agency=Associated Press |title=Leak's career day (352 yards, 4 TDs) leads Florida in rout of UCF |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap/_/gameId/262520057 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230820173117/https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap/_/gameId/262520057 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 20, 2023 |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}

File:Tim Tebow.jpg

Tebow's biggest game in the season came against LSU on October 7, where he accounted for all three of the Gators' touchdowns, passing for two and rushing for another.{{Cite web |date=October 8, 2006 |title=Tim Tebow Excels as Florida Tops LSU 23–10 |url=http://www.firstcoastnews.com/sports/gators/news-article.aspx?storyid=66505 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120907054927/http://www.firstcoastnews.com/sports/gators/news-article.aspx?storyid=66505 |archive-date=September 7, 2012 |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=First Coast News |agency=Associated Press}} Tebow played a role in the Gators' victory in the 2007 BCS National Championship Game against Ohio State. He threw for one touchdown and rushed for another, finishing with 39 rushing yards.{{Cite web |last=Donnan |first=Jim |date=January 8, 2007 |title=2007 Tostitos BCS National Championship game |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/bowls06/bowls?game=bcs |access-date=October 8, 2021 |publisher=ESPN}} He finished 2006 with the second-most rushing yards on the Gator team.{{Cite web |title=Season Review |url=http://www.gatorzone.com/football/history/2006/review.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080517005807/http://www.gatorzone.com/football/history/2006/review.pdf |archive-date=May 17, 2008 |access-date=December 5, 2007 |website=GatorZone.com}}{{Cite web |title=2006 Florida Gators Stats |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/florida/2006.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}

File:Gators2007QBs.jpg (on far left, #13) and other Gator QBs during pre-game warm-ups]]

{{See also|2007 Florida Gators football team}}

Although questions about his passing skill loomed, Tebow was named the Florida Gators starting quarterback for the 2007 season.{{Cite web |date=September 2, 2007|agency=Associated Press |title=Florida's Tebow throws for 300 yards, 3 TDs in debut as starter |url=http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272440057&campaign=rss&source=ESPNHeadlines |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070904004902/http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=272440057&campaign=rss&source=ESPNHeadlines |url-status=dead |archive-date=September 4, 2007 |access-date=November 16, 2007 |website=ESPN.com}} He opened the year 13-of-17 for 300 yards and three touchdowns in his starting debut against Western Kentucky.{{Cite web |last=Long |first=Mark |date=September 1, 2007 |title=Tebow Shines As Gators Crush W. Kentucky |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/01/AR2007090100875.html |access-date=January 6, 2014 |agency=Associated Press |newspaper=The Washington Post}} Tebow finished the regular season with the second highest passing efficiency in the nation with 177.8. Additionally, he averaged 4.3 yards per carry on the ground.{{Cite web |title=Bowl Subdivision (FBS) National Player Report: Passing Efficiency |url=http://web1.ncaa.org/d1mfb/natlRank.jsp?year=2007&div=4&rpt=IA_playerpasseff |access-date=September 17, 2007 |website=NCAA}}

Tebow set numerous personal, school, and national records in the 2007 season, including:

• University of Florida single-game quarterback rushing yards, 166, week 4{{Cite web |date=September 22, 2007 |title=Tebow has big day against Ole Miss |url=http://www.gatorzone.com/story.php?sport=footb&id=12642&html=0 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130924050400/http://www.gatorzone.com/story.php?sport=footb&id=12642&html=0 |archive-date=September 24, 2013 |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=Gatorzone.com}}
• SEC season rushing touchdown record, 20{{Cite web |date=November 4, 2007|agency=Associated Press |title=Florida wins 17th straight vs. Vandy, stays in SEC East race |url=http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273070057 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714031825/http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=273070057 |url-status=dead |archive-date=July 14, 2012 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com}}
• Career high single-game rushing touchdowns, 5, November 10
• SEC season total touchdowns (passing and rushing), 55{{Cite web |date=January 1, 2008 |title=Capital One Bowl, Gatorzone |url=http://www.gatorzone.com/story.php?id=13153&sport=footb&html=0 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130924045452/http://www.gatorzone.com/story.php?id=13153&sport=footb&html=0 |archive-date=September 24, 2013 |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=Gatorzone.com}}

On November 24, against Florida State, Tebow threw for three touchdowns and rushed for two in a 45–12 rout of the Seminoles. It was later revealed that Tebow fractured his right hand during the third quarter but played the rest of the game. He had to wear a cast for the next three weeks.{{Cite magazine |date=December 14, 2007 |title=Tebow practices without cast |magazine=Sports Illustrated |agency=Associated Press |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/football/ncaa/specials/bowls/2007/12/14/tebow.cast.ap/ |url-status=dead |access-date=October 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071218173534/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/football/ncaa/specials/bowls/2007/12/14/tebow.cast.ap/ |archive-date=December 18, 2007}} He led the SEC in pass completion percentage and rushing touchdowns.{{Cite web |last= |title=2007 Southeastern Conference Leaders |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/conferences/sec/2007-leaders.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}

After the 2007 season, Tebow was recognized as a first-team All-SEC selection and a consensus first-team All-American.{{Cite web |title=Consensus All-America Teams (2000–2009) |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/all-america-2000-2009.html#2007 |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=December 5, 2007 |title=EIGHT GATORS NAMED ALL-SEC; TEBOW, SPIKES ON FIRST TEAM |url=https://www.tampabay.com/archive/2007/12/05/eight-gators-named-all-sec-tebow-spikes-on-first-team/ |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Tampa Bay Times |language=en}} He won the Heisman Trophy, given to the most outstanding college football player of the year. Tebow also received the Davey O'Brien Award, annually given to the best quarterback in the nation, on February 18 in Fort Worth, Texas.{{Cite web |title=Davey O'Brien Award Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/obrien.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} In addition, he won the Maxwell Award and AP Player of the Year.{{Cite web |title=Maxwell Award Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/maxwell.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=AP Player of the Year Award Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/ap-poy.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}

File:Tim Tebow 20071223.jpg

On December 8, 2007, Tebow was awarded the Heisman Trophy, finishing ahead of Arkansas's Darren McFadden, Hawaii's Colt Brennan, and Missouri's Chase Daniel. He was the first sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy. He garnered 462 first-place votes and 1,957 points, 254 points ahead of the runner-up, Arkansas running back Darren McFadden.{{Cite web |title=Expanded Heisman Trophy voting results |url=http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/6700005 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080218100222/http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/6700005/ |archive-date=February 18, 2008 |access-date=February 17, 2008 |website=NBC Sports}}{{Cite web |date=December 9, 2007 |title=First sophomore wins football's Heisman Trophy |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/09/sports/09iht-HEISMAN.1.8653949.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=The New York Times |language=en-US}} He finished the regular season as the only player in FBS history to rush and pass for at least 20 touchdowns in both categories in the same season.{{Cite web |last=Robinson |first=Joshua |date=December 8, 2007 |title=Tim Tebow First Sophomore to Win Heisman |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/09/sports/ncaafootball/09heisman.html |access-date=December 8, 2007 |website=The New York Times}} He had 32 passing touchdowns, 23 rushing touchdowns, and became the third Florida player to win the Heisman Trophy, joining Steve Spurrier and Danny Wuerffel.{{Cite web |last=Zaccardi |first=Nick |date=December 8, 2007 |title=Tebow becomes third Heisman winner in UF history |url=http://www.alligator.org/articles/2007/12/08/sports/football/atebow.txt |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717073807/http://www.alligator.org/articles/2007/12/08/sports/football/atebow.txt |archive-date=July 17, 2012 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=The Independent Florida Alligator}}

{{See also|2008 Florida Gators football team}}

Before the 2007 season had even come to a close, Florida coach Urban Meyer stated that he would likely use two quarterbacks during the 2008 season to take some of the workload off of Tebow's shoulders.{{Cite web |last1=Curtis |first1=Dave |last2=Adelson |first2=Andrea |last3=Whitley |first3=David |date=December 29, 2007 |title=Urban Meyer plans to use 2-QB system in 2008 |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/os-xpm-2007-12-29-caponenotes29-story.html |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Orlando Sentinel}} Tebow led the Gators in rushing in 2007{{Cite web |title=Florida Gators Statistics – 2007 |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/team/stats/_/id/57/florida-gators |access-date=January 1, 2008 |website=ESPN.com}} but also had to play through a bruised shoulder and broken non-throwing hand. Before the 2008 season even started, Tebow had his name pulled from consideration for the Playboy Preseason All-American team because it conflicted with his Christian beliefs.{{Cite web |last=Murphy |first=Tim |date=July 30, 2008 |title=Devout Heisman winner declines spot in 'Playboy' lineup |url=https://www.usatoday.com/news/religion/2008-07-30-tebow-playboy_N.htm |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=USA Today}}

On September 27, 2008, in the fourth week of the season, the undefeated No. 4 Gators lost to unranked Ole Miss at home, despite being 22-point favorites. After the game, Tebow delivered a speech to the media, later known as "The Promise" and later regarded as one of the most iconic speeches in college football history. In this speech, Tebow apologized for the loss and promised he and the team would do better. He would keep good on this promise, as the Gators would not lose another game for the rest of the season.{{Cite web |last=Rosenberg |first=David |date=September 27, 2022 |title=Florida Football Time Machine: Tebow delivers 'The Promise' speech |url=https://gatorswire.usatoday.com/2022/09/27/florida-football-tim-tebow-the-promise/ |access-date=August 26, 2023 |website=Gators Wire|publisher=USA Today |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=Tim Tebow, Eli Manning break down iconic promise speech from Florida-Ole Miss game |url=https://247sports.com/article/tim-tebow-eli-manning-break-down-iconic-promise-speech-from-florida-ole-miss-game-191275516/ |access-date=August 26, 2023 |website=247Sports |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Hazarika |first=Priyam |date=August 24, 2023 |title=Remembering Tim Tebow's 'The Promise' speech which inspired Gators to the 2008 SEC Championship |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/college-football/news-remembering-tim-tebow-s-the-promise-speech-inspired-gators-2008-sec-championship |access-date=August 26, 2023 |website=www.sportskeeda.com |language=en-us}}{{Cite web |last=Duffley |first=John |date=September 27, 2021 |title="The Promise" Speech Cemented Tim Tebow's Legacy |url=https://fanbuzz.com/college-football/sec/florida/on-this-day-tebows-promise/ |access-date=August 26, 2023 |website=FanBuzz |language=en-US}}

File:Tim Tebow snapping on October 25, 2008.jpg

On November 1, 2008, playing against Georgia, Tebow ran for his 37th rushing touchdown, breaking the school record previously held by former Florida running back Emmitt Smith. Tebow helped lead the Gators to a 12–1 record in 2008. After clinching the SEC East title, the team played for and won the SEC title in the 2008 SEC Championship Game against Alabama. The win secured the #2 ranking in the final BCS standings, which earned the Gators the chance to play #1 ranked Oklahoma in the 2009 BCS National Championship Game, which they won 24–14.{{Cite web |last=Kelley |first=Kevin |date=January 9, 2009 |title=Florida wins 2009 BCS National Championship Game |url=https://fbschedules.com/florida-gators-win-2009-bcs-national-championship-game/ |access-date=March 28, 2020 |website=FBSchedules.com |language=en-US}} He led the SEC in pass completion percentage and passing touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=2008 Southeastern Conference Leaders |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfbconferences/sec/2008-leaders.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}

Tebow finished third in the 2008 Heisman Trophy voting, with Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford taking the top spot followed by Texas quarterback Colt McCoy, despite Tebow receiving the most first-place votes.{{Cite web |date=December 14, 2008 |title=Oklahoma quarterback Bradford wins Heisman |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3767667 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}{{Cite web |last=Thamel |first=Pete |date=December 14, 2008 |title=Bradford Wins Heisman, but the Top Prize Awaits |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/14/sports/ncaafootball/14heisman.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=The New York Times |language=en-US}} He won the Maxwell Award in 2008, only the second player to ever win the award twice.{{Cite web |date=December 12, 2008 |title=Florida Gators QB Tim Tebow second two-time winner of Maxwell Award |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3763720 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} He won the Manning Award, Maxwell Award, and SEC Offensive Player of the Year.{{Cite web |title=Manning Award Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/manning.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=December 12, 2008 |title=Florida's Tebow wins second Maxwell Award|agency=Associated Press |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=3763720 |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=SEC Offensive Player of the Year Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/sec-opoy.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}

On January 11, 2009, at a national championship celebration held at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium,{{Cite web |last=DiRocco |first=Michael |date=January 12, 2009 |title=Tebow announces return to Florida |url=https://www.jacksonville.com/story/sports/college/uf-gators/2009/01/12/tebow-announces-return-to-florida/15999200007/ |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=The Florida Times-Union |language=en-US}} Tebow announced that he would not make himself eligible for the 2009 NFL draft, but would instead return for his senior season at Florida.{{Cite web |last=Bias |first=Lee Ann |date=January 12, 2009 |title=Tim Tebow Is Returning for His Senior Season |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/109800-tim-tebow-is-returning-for-his-senior-season |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Bleacher Report}} A day later, he had surgery on his right shoulder to remove a bone spur in an effort to reduce chronic inflammation.{{Cite web |date=January 12, 2009 |title=Tebow has surgery on non-throwing shoulder |url=http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/28623158 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130129070323/http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/28623158 |archive-date=January 29, 2013 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=NBCSports.MSNBC.com |agency=Associated Press}}

{{Main|2009 Florida Gators football team}}

Tebow opened the 2009 season continuing a streak of throwing and running for a touchdown in blowout wins over Charleston Southern and Troy.{{Cite web |title=Charleston Southern at Florida Box Score, September 5, 2009 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2009-09-05-florida.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Troy at Florida Box Score, September 12, 2009 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2009-09-12-florida.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} He ran for a touchdown in the third game, a win against Tennessee, but failed to throw for a touchdown for the first time since his freshman season.{{Cite web |title=Tennessee at Florida Box Score, September 19, 2009 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2009-09-19-florida.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} In answer to an interview question, Tebow stated he was a virgin.{{Cite web |last=Brennan |first=Eamonn |date=July 23, 2009 |title=Tim Tebow Admits Virginity |url=https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/sports/tim-tebow-admits-virginity/1885330/ |access-date=October 8, 2021}} The statement was subject to much discussion about whether the question was necessary, including criticism of the reporter who originally asked.{{Cite web |last=Tompkins |first=Al |date=July 24, 2009 |title=Why Reporter's Question about Tim Tebow's Virginity Was Out of Line |url=https://www.poynter.org/reporting-editing/2009/why-reporters-question-about-tim-tebows-virginity-was-out-of-line/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=poynter.org}}{{Cite web |date=July 27, 2009 |title=Tebow Is a Virgin: As Usual, He Answers Things with Dignity |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/224415-tebow-is-a-virgin-as-usual-he-answers-things-with-dignity |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Bleacher Report}}{{Cite web |last=Calkins |first=Geoff |date=July 27, 2009 |title=Saving himself for marriage? Question to Gator QB Tebow is virgin territory |url=https://archive.naplesnews.com/sports/college/saving-himself-for-marriage-question-to-gator-qb-tebow-is-virgin-territory-ep-397322114-343811222.html/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Naples Daily News}}

Tebow started against Kentucky despite suffering from a respiratory illness and taking two bags of intravenous fluids before the game. He ran for two touchdowns to put him in 2nd place on the all-time SEC touchdown list and he also threw for a touchdown.{{Cite web |title=Florida at Kentucky Box Score, September 26, 2009 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2009-09-26-kentucky.html |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} Late in the third quarter, he was hit in the chest by Kentucky defensive end Taylor Wyndham, fell backwards, and hit the back of his head on the knee of Florida tackle Marcus Gilbert. He lay motionless for several minutes before being helped to the sidelines, where he appeared to vomit. He was taken by ambulance to the University of Kentucky Chandler Medical Center.{{Cite web |last=Schlabach |first=Mark |date=September 27, 2009 |title=Florida Gators QB Tim Tebow taken to hospital after hard sack |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=4507101 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com}}{{Cite web |last=Volin |first=Ben |date=September 26, 2009 |title=Tim Tebow hurt in Florida Gators' rout of Kentucky Wildcats |url=https://www.palmbeachpost.com/article/20090927/SPORTS/812035703 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Palm Beach Post |archive-date=October 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211008035720/https://www.palmbeachpost.com/article/20090927/SPORTS/812035703 |url-status=dead }} A CT scan showed no bleeding in the brain, with the injury described as a mild concussion.{{Cite web |date=September 26, 2009 |title=Pictures: Tim Tebow sustains "mild" concussion in Florida's rout over Kentucky |url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/college/gators/orl-pictures-tim-tebow-092709,0,4605030.photogallery |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090929081909/http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/college/gators/orl-pictures-tim-tebow-092709,0,4605030.photogallery |archive-date=September 29, 2009 |access-date=September 27, 2009 |website=Orlando Sentinel}} Coach Urban Meyer stayed the night in the hospital with Tebow, who was discharged in the morning.{{Cite web |last=Schad |first=Joe |date=September 30, 2009 |title=Tests to determine Tebow's return |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=4516919 |access-date=December 6, 2009 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} Coincidentally, Florida did not have a game scheduled for the following Saturday, and Tebow was cleared to play in the Gators' next contest at LSU on October 10, two weeks after the incident.{{Cite web |date=October 12, 2009 |title=Tebow Still Taking Some Post-concussion Tests |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tebow-still-taking-some-post-concussion-tests/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=CBS News |agency=Associated Press}}

File:Florida Gators vs. Florida State Seminoles - 063.jpg

On October 31, 2009, while playing against Georgia, Tebow ran for his 50th and 51st rushing touchdowns, breaking the SEC career record previously held by former Georgia running back Herschel Walker.{{Cite web |date=November 1, 2009|agency=Associated Press |title=Tebow's 50th rushing TD sets SEC mark |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=4611764 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com}} His penultimate collegiate game, the 2009 SEC Championship, saw him once again facing the University of Alabama. Tebow threw for 245 yards and a touchdown and led the team with 63 yards rushing, but the Gators fell 32–13 and lost their chance to play for a second consecutive national title.{{Cite web |date=December 5, 2009|agency=Associated Press |title=Alabama finishes off Florida for berth in BCS title game |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap/_/gameId/293390333 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220418080051/https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap/_/gameId/293390333 |url-status=dead |archive-date=April 18, 2022 |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=ESPN.com}} Florida beat Cincinnati 51–24 in the 2010 Sugar Bowl the following January. In what was Tebow's last college game, he completed 31-of-35 passes for 482 yards and three touchdowns and accounted for four total touchdowns and 533 yards of total offense, which set a record for a Bowl Championship Series game.{{Cite web |date=January 1, 2010 |title=Tebow caps college career with 533 yards, Sugar Bowl romp |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=300010057 |access-date=January 2, 2010 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} He graduated from the University of Florida in December 2009.{{Cite web |last=Curry |first=Christopher |date=December 20, 2009 |title=A special day for Tebow, other grads |url=https://www.gainesville.com/article/LK/20091220/News/604168927/GS |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Gainesville Sun |archive-date=October 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211008035718/https://www.gainesville.com/article/LK/20091220/News/604168927/GS |url-status=dead }}

At the end of his college career, Tebow held five National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), 14 Southeastern Conference (SEC), and 28 University of Florida statistical records.{{Cite web |title=Gator Football Roster/Bios |url=http://www.gatorzone.com/football/bios.php?year=2009&player_id=93 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603000439/http://www.gatorzone.com/football/bios.php?year=2009&player_id=93 |archive-date=June 3, 2013 |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=Gatorzone.com}} He was the SEC's all-time leader in career passing efficiency (170.8), completion percentage (67.1%), passing touchdown to interception ratio (5.5 to 1), rushing yards by a quarterback (2,947), rushing touchdowns (any position) (57), and total touchdowns responsible for (145).{{Cite web |last=Inabinett |first=Mark |title=SEC Football by the Numbers: Tim Tebow and the SEC record book |url=http://blog.al.com/press-register-sports/2010/01/sec_football_by_the_numbers_ti.html |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=al.com|date=January 30, 2010 }} Among many mentions in the NCAA Division-I record book, Tebow is ranked second in career passing efficiency, third in career yards per attempt (9.33), 8th in career rushing touchdowns, and also owns the record for most consecutive games in which he both threw at least one touchdown pass and scored at least one rushing touchdown (14).{{Cite web |title=NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision Record Book p.14, p.26, p.29, p.33 |url=http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/stats/football_records/2011/FBS.pdf |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=NCAA.org}}

• SEC All-Freshman Team{{Cite web |date=December 7, 2006 |title=2006 SEC Football All-Freshman Team Announced |url=http://www.secsports.com/index.php?s=&url_channel_id=2&url_article_id=8065&change_well_id=2 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071215131539/http://www.secsports.com/index.php?s=&url_channel_id=2&url_article_id=8065&change_well_id=2 |archive-date=December 15, 2007 |access-date=November 30, 2007 |website=SEC Sports}}

File:Tebow.jpg

• Walter Camp Award finalist{{Cite web |date=November 28, 2007 |title=Tebow finalist for Walter Camp award |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2007/11/28/tebow-finalist-for-walter-camp-award/ |access-date=January 8, 2012 |website=Orlando Sentinel}}
• Heisman Trophy Winner
• Sporting News Player of the Year
• First-team Academic All-American2009 Florida Gators Football Media Guide, [http://web.gatorzone.com/football/media/2009/pdf/143-172.pdf History] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711080837/http://web.gatorzone.com/football/media/2009/pdf/143-172.pdf |date=July 11, 2011 }}, University Athletic Association, Gainesville, Florida, p. 155 (2009). Retrieved July 12, 2010.
• Manning Award finalist{{Cite web |title=Florida's Tebow Named Academic All-American, Manning Award Finalist |url=http://www.gatorzone.com/story.php?id=13070&html=football/news/20071129120600.html&sport=footb |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071215031610/http://www.gatorzone.com/story.php?id=13070&html=football%2Fnews%2F20071129120600.html&sport=footb |archive-date=December 15, 2007 |access-date=November 30, 2007 |website=Gatorzone.com}}
• Rivals.com National Offensive Player of the Year{{Cite web |last=Megargee |first=Steve |date=November 29, 2007 |title=Rivals.com All-America First Team |url=http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=1144&CID=745101 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071130190738/http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=1144&CID=745101 |archive-date=November 30, 2007 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Rivals.com}}
• Rivals.com SEC Offensive Player of the Year{{Cite web |last=Megargee |first=Steve |date=November 28, 2007 |title=Decorated Dorsey leads best of the SEC |url=http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=1144&CID=744690 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071130163810/http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=1144&CID=744690 |archive-date=November 30, 2007 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Rivals.com}}
• First-team All-SEC (Associated Press, Coaches,{{Cite news |date=December 4, 2007 |title=2007 All-SEC Football Team Announced |publisher=Southeastern Conference |url=http://www.secsports.com/index.php?s=&url_channel_id=2&url_article_id=10081&change_well_id=2 |url-status=dead |access-date=January 23, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080106181159/http://www.secsports.com/index.php?s=&url_channel_id=2&url_article_id=10081&change_well_id=2 |archive-date=January 6, 2008}} Rivals.com)
• Associated Press SEC Offensive Player of the Year{{Cite news |date=December 5, 2007 |title=AP All-SEC Football Team Announced |publisher=Southeastern Conference |url=http://www.secsports.com/index.php?s=&url_channel_id=2&url_article_id=10089&url_subchannel_id=&change_well_id=2 |url-status=dead |access-date=January 23, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071208134031/http://www.secsports.com/index.php?s=&url_channel_id=2&url_article_id=10089&url_subchannel_id=&change_well_id=2 |archive-date=December 8, 2007}}
• First-team All-American by: Associated Press, Football Writers Association of America, Walter Camp Football Foundation, Sporting News, Sports Illustrated, ESPN, CBS Sports, College Football News, Rivals.com, and Scout.com
• Roy F. Kramer SEC Male Athlete of the Year.{{Cite web |last=Zimmerman |first=Brandon |date=June 25, 2008 |title=Tebow named SEC Male Athlete of Year |url=https://www.gainesville.com/story/news/2008/06/25/tebow-named-sec-male-athlete-of-year/31571908007/ |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Gainesville Sun |language=en-US}}
• ESPY for Best Male College Athlete{{Cite web |date=July 16, 2009 |title=Tim Tebow wins ESPY |url=https://www.jacksonville.com/article/20090716/SPORTS/801231255 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=The Florida Times-Union |archive-date=October 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211008035723/https://www.jacksonville.com/article/20090716/SPORTS/801231255 |url-status=dead }}

• First-team All-America by College Football News.
• ESPY for Best Male College Athlete
• Heisman Trophy finalist{{Cite web |title=2008 Heisman Trophy Voting |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/heisman-2008.html |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}
• Southeastern Conference Offensive Player of the Week{{Cite web |title=SEC Football Players of the Week Announced |url=http://www.secsports.com/index.php?s=&url_channel_id=2&url_article_id=11757&change_well_id=2 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090415214331/http://secsports.com/index.php?s= |archive-date=April 15, 2009 |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=SEC Sports}}
• 2008 SEC Championship Game Most Valuable Player
• First-team All-SEC (AP,{{Cite web |date=December 9, 2008 |title=2008 AP All-SEC Football Team Announced |url=http://www.secsports.com/news/default.aspx?ArticleId=12015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091206165014/http://www.secsports.com/news/default.aspx?ArticleId=12015 |archive-date=December 6, 2009 |publisher=Southeastern Conference}} Coaches,{{Cite web |date=December 8, 2008 |title=2008 Associated Press All-SEC football team |url=https://www.clantonadvertiser.com/2008/12/08/2008-associated-press-all-sec-football-team/ |access-date=June 21, 2023 |website=The Clanton Advertiser |language=en}} Rivals.com{{Cite web |date=December 11, 2008 |title=All-SEC Team |url=http://www.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=887501 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130521092813/http://www.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=887501 |archive-date=May 21, 2013 |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=Rivals.com}})
• Southeastern Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year{{Cite web |date=June 25, 2008 |title=Tebow Named SEC Male Athlete of the Year |url=https://floridagators.com/news/2008/6/25/14124.aspx |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Florida Gators}}
• First-team Academic All-American

• First-team Academic All-American
• Senior CLASS Award
• Heisman Trophy finalist{{Cite web |title=2009 Heisman Trophy Voting |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/heisman-2009.html |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}
• First-team All-SEC (AP,{{Cite web |date=December 8, 2009 |title=All-SEC Football Team Announced |url=http://www.secsports.com/news/default.aspx?ArticleId=15561 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091212132805/http://www.secsports.com/news/default.aspx?ArticleId=15561 |archive-date=December 12, 2009 |website=Southeastern Conference}} Coaches,{{Cite web |date=December 8, 2009 |title=Coaches Select All-SEC Team |url=http://www2.wrbl.com/rbl/sports/college/article/coaches_select_all-sec_team/114375/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100619005447/http://www2.wrbl.com/rbl/sports/college/article/coaches_select_all-sec_team/114375 |archive-date=June 19, 2010 |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=wrbl.com}} Rivals.com{{Cite web |last=Huguenin |first=Mike |date=December 10, 2009 |title=Rivals.com 2009 All-SEC team |url=http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1026838 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100612080523/http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1026838 |archive-date=June 12, 2010 |access-date=May 24, 2010 |website=Rivals.com}})
• Second-team All-America (Walter Camp Foundation)
• Southeastern Conference Offensive Player of the Year
• Sports Illustrated College football Player of the Decade{{Cite magazine |last=Mandel |first=Stewart |author-link=Stewart Mandel |date=December 17, 2009 |title=Tim Tebow, USC Trojans dominate college football decade - 2000s: The Decade in Sports - SI.com |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/magazine/specials/2000s/12/15/cfb-highlights-lowlights/index.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100625040938/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/magazine/specials/2000s/12/15/cfb-highlights-lowlights/index.html |archive-date=June 25, 2010 |access-date=May 24, 2010 |magazine=Sports Illustrated}}

{{See also|The 3:16 game}}

In 2010, a new rule for the next NCAA football season banned messages on eye paint. This rule was dubbed "The Tebow Rule"{{Cite web |date=February 14, 2010 |title=Tim Tebow Rules! (According to the NCAA) - SportsCenter.com |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/sportscenter/post/_/id/31088/tim-tebow-rules-according-to-the-ncaa |access-date=May 24, 2010 |website=ESPN.com}}{{Cite web |last=Young |first=Eric |date=February 12, 2010 |title=NCAA Football Committee OKs Ban on 'Eye Black' Notes |url=http://www.christianpost.com/article/20100212/ncaa-football-committee-oks-ban-on-eye-black-notes/index.html |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=The Christian Post}}{{Cite web |last=Volin |first=Ben |date=March 31, 2012 |title=NCAA trying to ban messages on eye black under the 'Tebow Rule' |url=https://www.palmbeachpost.com/article/20100212/SPORTS/812034060 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=The Palm Beach Post |archive-date=October 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211008035716/https://www.palmbeachpost.com/article/20100212/SPORTS/812034060 |url-status=dead }} by media.

During his college football career, Tebow frequently wore references to biblical verses on his eye black. In the 2009 BCS Championship Game, he wore John 3:16 on his eye black; the verse was the highest-ranked Google search term over the next 24 hours, generating over 90 million searches.{{Cite web |last=Whiteside |first=Kelly |date=July 24, 2009 |title=As QB and VIP, Tebow always draws a crowd |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/football/2009-07-23-notes-tebow_N.htm |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=USA Today}}{{Cite web |last=Thamel |first=Pete |author-link=Pete Thamel |date=January 12, 2009 |title=Tebow Returning to Florida for Final Year |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/12/sports/ncaafootball/12tebow.html |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=The New York Times}}{{Cite web |last=Jonsson |first=Patrik |date=February 3, 2010 |title=Top 5 Tim Tebow eye black biblical verses |url=http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Society/2010/0203/Top-5-Tim-Tebow-eye-black-biblical-verses |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=The Christian Science Monitor}}{{Cite web |last=Mirchandani |first=Raakhee |date=December 14, 2011 |title=Tim Tebow's a treat from heaven |url=http://news.bostonherald.com/news/columnists/view/2011_1214this_guys_a_treat_from_heaven/srvc=home&position=recent |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120126102206/http://news.bostonherald.com/news/columnists/view/2011_1214this_guys_a_treat_from_heaven/srvc%3Dhome%26position%3Drecent |archive-date=January 26, 2012 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Boston Herald}} Additionally, later, when Tebow switched to another verse, there were 3.43 million searches of "Tim Tebow" and "Proverbs 3:5–6" together.{{Cite web |last=Fowler |first=Jeremy |date=September 10, 2009 |title=Tebow draws more attention for eye-black messages |url=http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/sports_college_uf/2009/09/tebow-draws-more-attention-for-eyeblack-messages.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100419070108/http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/sports_college_uf/2009/09/tebow-draws-more-attention-for-eyeblack-messages.html |archive-date=April 19, 2010 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Orlando Sentinel}}

Tebow stated of the searches "It just goes to show you the influence and the platform that you have as a student-athlete and as a quarterback at Florida".

Despite the media labeling it as the Tebow rule, the NCAA denies the rule was influenced by Tebow in particular, since many other notable players (Reggie Bush and Terrelle Pryor for example) wore messages on eye black.{{Cite web |last=Schad |first=Joe |date=April 16, 2010 |title=Eye black messages, wedge blocks out |url=https://www.espn.com.au/college-football/news/story?id=5092774 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}{{Cite news |last=Chiles |first=Clay |date=April 16, 2010 |title=NCAA Bans Eye Black With Messages |work=The Huffington Post |url=https://huffingtonpost.com/2010/04/16/ncaa-bans-eye-black-with_n_541201.html |access-date=May 24, 2010}} An NCAA spokesman said: "When this rule was proposed, the committee did not focus on any one team or student athlete. That measure reinforces what the intended use of eye black is, which is to shade the eyes from the sun."

The NFL already had a rule prohibiting players from wearing messages on eye black dating back to Jim McMahon's time with the Chicago Bears, so Tebow could not have continued the practice in the NFL.

After passing on the 2009 NFL draft for his senior season at Florida, Tebow went on to enter the 2010 NFL draft. Despite his college success, Tebow's NFL potential was much debated. At the time, Jon Gruden said Tebow was "the strongest human being that's ever played the position" and "is the kind of guy who could revolutionize the game".{{Cite web |last=Hyde |first=David |date=February 9, 2009 |title=Tebow is '250 pounds of concrete cyanide' |url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sfl-mtblog-2009-02-tebow_is_250_pounds_of_concret-story.html |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Sun-Sentinel}} Former Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy said he would pick Tebow with a top 10 pick over any quarterback in the 2010 Draft.{{Cite web |last=Robinson |first=Charles |date=November 25, 2009 |title=Debate over Tebow's draft standing in full swing |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=cr-inconvenienttruths112509&prov=yhoo&type=lgns |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Yahoo! Sports}} However, NFL analyst Mel Kiper Jr. believed Tebow did not have the intangibles to play quarterback in the NFL. "I don't think he can be a fulltime quarterback. I don't think he can be the quarterback of the future for you, but I do think in the third round, maybe the second round, he'll be the same as Pat White", said Kiper.{{Cite web |last=Lumpkin |first=Bill |date=August 15, 2012 |title=Tebow transitioning to new life |url=https://www.news-journalonline.com/news/20100212/tebow-transitioning-to-new-life |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=The Daytona Beach News-Journal}}

Tebow was particularly mentioned as a potential third-round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars, his hometown team. Some, including Florida governor Charlie Crist, suggested that Tebow could be the remedy for dwindling Jaguars ticket sales at EverBank Field.{{Cite web |date=December 8, 2009 |title=Crist wants Jags to draft Tebow |url=https://www.espn.com.au/nfl/draft10/news/story?id=4723102 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |publisher=ESPN |agency=Associated Press}}

Early in the 2009 season, Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver stated: "He (Tebow) clearly is an outstanding football player and would be an asset to any football organization. Clearly there's going to be a groundswell for Tebow, and we'll have to make that evaluation if we have a draft pick that's going to be anywhere near him."{{Cite web |date=September 17, 2009 |title=Jags owner: Drafting Tebow possible |url=https://www.espn.com.au/nfl/news/story?id=4478730 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |publisher=ESPN |agency=Associated Press}} Not everyone in the organization agreed, as Jaguar lineman Uche Nwaneri posted doubts about Tebow's potential NFL success on his team's website message board.{{Cite web |date=February 2, 2010 |title=Jaguars Forum |url=http://forum.jaguars.com/index.php?showtopic=681930 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100412102609/http://forum.jaguars.com/index.php?showtopic=681930 |archive-date=April 12, 2010 |access-date=May 24, 2010 |website=Forum.jaguars.com}}

{{nfl predraft

| height ft = 6

| height in = 2+3/4

| weight = 236

| dash = 4.72

| ten split = 1.55

| twenty split = 2.66

| shuttle = 4.17

| cone drill = 6.66

| vertical = 38+1/2

| broad ft = 9

| broad in = 7

| bench =

| arm span = 31+3/4

| hand span = 10+1/8

| wonderlic = 22

| note = All values from NFL Scouting Combine.{{Cite web |date=September 21, 2006 |title=Tim Tebow {{pipe}} Florida, QB: 2010 NFL Draft Scout Player Profile |url=http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=66563&draftyear=2010&genpos=QB |access-date=May 24, 2010 |website=Nfldraftscout.com}}{{Cite web |title=NFL Events: Combine Player Profiles – Tim Tebow |url=http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/tim--tebow?id=497135#tabs:tab-overview |access-date=May 24, 2010 |website=Nfl.com}}}}

File:Tim Tebow (Broncos).JPG in 2010]]

Tebow was selected by the Denver Broncos in the first round (25th overall) of the 2010 NFL draft.{{Cite web |title=2010 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2010/draft.htm |access-date=June 26, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The Broncos had acquired the pick in a trade with the Baltimore Ravens on the first night of the draft for the Broncos' second, third and fourth round picks.{{Cite web |date=April 22, 2010 |title=Ravens trade 25th overall pick to Denver Broncos |url=https://www.denverpost.com/2010/04/22/ravens-trade-25th-overall-pick-to-denver-broncos/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=The Denver Post |agency=Associated Press}} Broncos head coach Josh McDaniels said about drafting Tebow, "He has all the traits you look for. It's a good pick."{{Cite web |last=Williamson |first=Bill |date=April 22, 2010 |title=Josh McDaniels' legacy is Tim Tebow |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/afcwest/post/_/id/12461/mcdaniels-legacy-is-tebow |access-date=May 24, 2010 |website=ESPN.com}} When asked how Tebow will be used, McDaniels commented that Tebow probably wouldn't start at quarterback as a rookie, and that he'll, "Play when he's ready." The Denver Post columnist Woody Paige praised the pick, saying "Tim Tremendous may be high risk, but he will be a Mile High Reward."{{Cite web |last=Paige |first=Woody |date=April 23, 2010 |title=By Josh, McD got it right |url=http://www.denverpost.com/paige/ci_14941740 |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=The Denver Post}}

He set an NFL Draft record for jersey sales and continued to have the top selling jersey through the 2010 season.{{cite web |last=Matuszewski |first=Erik |date=April 27, 2010 |title=Tebow Sets Jersey Sales Record for NFL Draftee, Topping Sanchez |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2010-04-27/tim-tebow-sets-jersey-sales-record-for-nfl-draftee-topping-jets-sanchez |access-date=October 8, 2021}}

On July 29, Tebow signed a five-year contract with the Broncos that had a base value of $11.25 million (he could make as much as $33 million through certain performance-based incentives). The contract included $8.7 million guaranteed.{{cite web |last=Leahy |first=Sean |date=July 29, 2010 |title=Tim Tebow agrees to a contract with Denver Broncos |work=USA Today |url=http://content.usatoday.com/communities/thehuddle/post/2010/07/tim-tebow-agrees-to-a-contract-with-denver-broncos/1 |access-date=July 30, 2010}}

On October 17, Tebow scored his first NFL touchdown, which was a five-yard running play against the New York Jets.{{Cite web |last=Hiatt |first=Gabe |date=October 17, 2010 |title=Tooth and Nail |url=http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Tooth-and-Nail/676efcd5-1025-45bc-85f0-dbe3493c4c49 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101020144426/http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Tooth-and-Nail/676efcd5-1025-45bc-85f0-dbe3493c4c49 |archive-date=October 20, 2010 |access-date=October 17, 2010 |website=DenverBroncos.com}} On November 14, Tebow threw a three-yard touchdown pass to fullback Spencer Larsen on his first career NFL pass attempt, as part of a 49–29 home victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. He also added a one-yard rushing touchdown in the game.{{Cite web |date=November 14, 2010 |title=Kyle Orton, Broncos jump out early, follow through to rout Chiefs |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap/_/gameId/301114007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210802154732/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap/_/gameId/301114007 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 2, 2021 |access-date=August 2, 2021 |website=ESPN.com |language=en |agency=Associated Press}}

Tebow started his first NFL game on December 19, which was a 39–23 road loss to the Oakland Raiders.{{Cite web |date=December 20, 2010 |title=Raiders keep postseason hopes alive by topping Tim Tebow, Broncos |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=301219013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101222011104/http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=301219013 |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 22, 2010 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} He completed 8-of-16 passes for 138 yards, including a 33-yard touchdown pass. He also rushed for 78 yards, 40 of which came on a touchdown run in the first quarter of the game.{{Cite web |title=Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders – December 19th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201012190rai.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} It was the longest touchdown run for a quarterback in Broncos history and the longest touchdown run in NFL history for a quarterback in his first start.{{citation needed|date=June 2023}}

Tebow's first career victory came in his second start on December 26. The Broncos defeated the Houston Texans, 24–23, in Denver.{{Cite web |title=Houston Texans at Denver Broncos – December 26th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201012260den.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He helped rally the Broncos from a 17–0 deficit at halftime, as he finished the game with 308 passing yards and one touchdown pass. He also added a fourth-quarter rushing touchdown, which capped the comeback.{{Cite web |date=December 27, 2010 |title=Tim Tebow helps Denver erase 17-point deficit |url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=301226007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101228100612/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=301226007 |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 28, 2010 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}

Tebow finished his rookie season playing sparingly in six games as a back-up (primarily on plays involving the wild horse formation, which is Denver's variation of the wildcat formation) before starting the last three games of the Broncos' season. He passed for a total of 654 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions. He also rushed for 227 yards and six touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Tim Tebow 2010 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/T/TeboTi00/gamelog/2010/ |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He became the first quarterback in NFL history to rush for a touchdown in each of his first three career starts.{{citation needed|date=June 2023}}

File:Tim Tebow (6566856787).jpg

Tebow began the 2011 season as the Denver Broncos' backup quarterback, behind Kyle Orton.{{Cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Arnie |date=February 24, 2011 |title=Broncos' Fox says Orton is starting QB |url=https://www.staugustine.com/story/sports/2011/02/25/broncos-fox-says-orton-starting-qb/16211031007/ |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=St. Augustine Record |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Muckley |first=Jason |date=August 22, 2011 |title=Kyle Orton Named Starting Quarterback for Denver Broncos, but for How Long? |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/816072-denver-broncos-name-kyle-orton-starting-quarterback-but-for-how-long |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en}} After the Broncos started 1–3, Tebow replaced Orton at halftime during a home game against the San Diego Chargers in week five.{{Cite web |title=Denver Broncos 2011 Games and Schedule |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/den/2011/gamelog/ |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=October 10, 2011|agency=Associated Press |title=Fox won't commit to quarterback until Tuesday |url=https://www.ocala.com/story/news/2011/10/10/fox-won-t-commit-to/31453494007/ |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=The Star Banner |language=en-US}} Tebow passed and ran for a touchdown in the fourth quarter, narrowing a 16-point difference to an ultimate 29–24 loss.{{Cite web |title=San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos – October 9th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201110090den.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Shortly afterward, Broncos' head coach John Fox announced Tebow would start in the following game on the road against the Miami Dolphins.{{Cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Arnie |date=October 12, 2011 |title=It's Tebow's time in Denver as he is named starting QB |url=https://www.jacksonville.com/story/sports/nfl/2011/10/12/its-tebows-time-denver-he-named-starting-qb/15887245007/ |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=The Florida Times-Union |language=en-US}} Tebow struggled for three-and-a-half quarters against the Dolphins, taking six sacks, but rallied from a 15–0 deficit in the last three minutes to win the game 18–15 in overtime.{{Cite web |title=Denver Broncos at Miami Dolphins – October 23rd, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201110230mia.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=October 24, 2011 |title=Tebow rallies Broncos to 18–15 OT win over Miami |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sdut-tebow-rallies-broncos-to-18-15-ot-win-over-miami-2011oct24-story.html |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=San Diego Union-Tribune |language=en-US |agency=Associated Press}} The next week, Tebow took seven sacks in a 45–10 loss to the Detroit Lions.{{Cite web |last=Klis |first=Mike |date=October 30, 2011 |title=Detroit Lions dominate Denver Broncos 45–10 as QB Tim Tebow struggles |url=https://www.denverpost.com/2011/10/30/detroit-lions-dominate-denver-broncos-45-10-as-qb-tim-tebow-struggles/ |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=The Denver Post |language=en-US}}

On November 6, Tebow rushed for 118 yards, along with passing for 124 yards and two touchdowns, as part of a 38–24 road victory over the Oakland Raiders, second only to Norris Weese in Broncos history for rushing by a quarterback.{{Cite web |last=Kurtzman |first=Rich |date=November 8, 2011 |title=Denver Broncos Beat Rival Oakland Raiders with Total Team Win |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/929305-denver-broncos-beat-rival-raiders-with-total-team-win |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Bleacher Report}} The Broncos followed with another road win over the Kansas City Chiefs. Tebow completed two passes on eight attempts for 69 yards and a touchdown.{{Cite web |title=Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs – November 13th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201111130kan.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} His second completion, a 56-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter to wide receiver Eric Decker, sealed the game for Denver.{{Cite web |last=Skretta |first=Dave |date=November 13, 2011 |title=Tebow leads Broncos to 17–10 win over Chiefs |url=https://www.staugustine.com/story/sports/2011/11/14/tebow-leads-broncos-17-10-win-over-chiefs/16190707007/ |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=St. Augustine Record |language=en-US}} Four days later, Tebow was 9-for-20 with 104 yards in a Thursday Night Football home game against the New York Jets.{{Cite web |title=New York Jets at Denver Broncos – November 17th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201111170den.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He led a 95-yard, game-winning touchdown drive with less than six minutes to play, capped by a 20-yard touchdown run on third-and-four with less than one minute remaining.{{Cite web |date=November 17, 2011 |title=Tim Tebow's 20-yard TD run caps Broncos late rally |url=http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311117007 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120707230636/http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311117007 |url-status=dead |archive-date=July 7, 2012 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} Tebow guided the Broncos to another comeback victory the next week—a 16–13 overtime road win over the San Diego Chargers, where he ran the ball 22 times for 67 yards.{{Cite web |title=Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers – November 27th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201111270sdg.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the tenth start of his NFL career, Tebow led the Broncos to their third consecutive come-from-behind win at the Minnesota Vikings, 35–32;{{Cite web |title=Denver Broncos at Minnesota Vikings – December 4th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201112040min.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} followed by a fourth comeback win, this time 13–10 in overtime at home over the Chicago Bears after being shut out for almost 58 minutes.{{Cite web |last=Klis |first=Mike |date=December 11, 2011 |title=Broncos, Tim Tebow rally late, again, to beat Chicago Bears 13–10 in OT |url=https://www.denverpost.com/2011/12/11/broncos-tim-tebow-rally-late-again-to-beat-chicago-bears-13-10-in-ot/ |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=The Denver Post |language=en-US}}

File:Tebow vs Chiefs 2012.jpg in January 2012]]

It was the last regular-season win of Tebow's career. In week 15, Tebow rushed for two touchdowns and completed 11-of-22 passes against the New England Patriots in a 41–23 loss. He was sacked four times in the game and had one fumble.{{Cite web |title=New England Patriots at Denver Broncos – December 18th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201112180den.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the Broncos' 40–14 loss to the Buffalo Bills the following week, he had one passing and one rushing touchdown but also threw three interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns, and two fumbles.{{Cite web |title=Denver Broncos at Buffalo Bills – December 24th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201112240buf.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He struggled for a third straight game the following week in a 7–3 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, completing only 6-of-22 passes and finishing with a career-low quarterback rating of 20.6, but a loss by the Oakland Raiders clinched a playoff spot for the Broncos in the AFC West.{{Cite web |title=Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos – January 1st, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201201010den.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=January 2, 2012 |title=Bengals and Broncos lose, but still make playoffs |url=https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/jan/02/bengals-and-broncos-lose-but-still-make-playoffs/ |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=The Spokesman-Review}} After the three consecutive losses, Broncos vice president and former quarterback John Elway said Tebow was playing tentatively and needed to "pull the trigger".{{Cite web|last=Boren |first=Cindy |date=January 4, 2012 |title=John Elway to Tim Tebow: 'Just pull the trigger' |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/early-lead/post/john-elway-to-tim-tebow-just-pull-the-trigger/2012/01/04/gIQAzC1faP_blog.html |access-date=February 4, 2012}}{{Cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Arnie |date=January 9, 2012 |title=Tebow rules in OT, too: Broncos 29, Steelers 23 |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/tebow-rules-in-ot-too-broncos-29-steelers-23-09000d5d825d7b27 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=NFL.com |agency=Associated Press}}

On January 8, Denver hosted the Pittsburgh Steelers during the Wild Card Round of the NFL playoffs. Tebow completed 10-of-21 passes for a career-high 316 yards and two touchdowns, including an 80-yard touchdown to Demaryius Thomas on the first play of overtime, as the Broncos won 29–23. Media sources noted Tebow's passing yards (316) and yards per completion (31.6) evoked the Bible's John 3:16. The Nielsen ratings for the game also peaked at 31.6. John 3:16 was the top search item on Google the next morning, followed by Tebow and Tim Tebow.{{Cite magazine |last=Levy |first=Glen |date=January 9, 2012 |title=Tim Tebow's 316 Passing Yards Evokes Biblical Number |url=https://newsfeed.time.com/2012/01/09/tim-tebows-316-passing-yards-evoke-biblical-number/ |url-status=live |magazine=Time |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120113065541/http://newsfeed.time.com/2012/01/09/tim-tebows-316-passing-yards-evoke-biblical-number/ |archive-date=January 13, 2012}}{{Cite web |last=Chase |first=Chris |date=January 9, 2012 |title=Tebow Time: The three 3:16 references, boffo TV ratings and Lady Gaga love |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/shutdown-corner/tebow-time-three-3-16-references-boffo-tv-172145772.html |access-date=February 4, 2012 |publisher=Yahoo! Sports}} The next week, Tebow completed just nine of 26 passes and took five sacks in a 45–10 defeat at the hands of the New England Patriots in the Divisional Round.{{Cite web |date=January 16, 2012 |title=Brady breaks record in win vs. Broncos |url=http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/New-England-Patriots-defeat-Denver-Broncos-011412 |access-date=February 4, 2012 |website=Fox Sports}}{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round – Denver Broncos at New England Patriots – January 14th, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201201140nwe.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

After the season, Elway confirmed that Tebow would be the Broncos' starting quarterback going into training camp in 2012.{{Cite web |last=Farrar |first=Doug |date=January 16, 2012 |title=Fox and Elway agree: Tim Tebow's earned the right to start in 2012 |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/fox-elway-agree-tim-tebow-earned-start-2012-221258523.html |access-date=February 4, 2012 |website=Shutdown Corner, a Yahoo! Sports Blog |publisher=Yahoo! Sports}} Despite on-field successes by the Broncos under Tebow, he finished the season with the lowest passing completion rate in the NFL (reaching 50% in just four of his 14 games) which led many to question his potential as a quarterback at the professional level.{{Cite web |title=2011 NFL Passing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2011/passing.htm |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Tebow's persistent fumbles also created uncertainty about his future as a quarterback.{{Cite web |last=McCarthy |first=Mike |date=August 23, 2011 |title=CBS sports analysts cool on Tebow's NFL chances |url=http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/mccarthy/story/2011-08-23/CBS-Sports-analysts-cool-on-Tim-Tebows-NFL-chances/50111678/1 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170421070828/http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/mccarthy/story/2011-08-23/CBS-Sports-analysts-cool-on-Tim-Tebows-NFL-chances/50111678/1 |archive-date=April 21, 2017 |access-date=September 21, 2016 |website=USA Today}}{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Michael David |date=August 24, 2011 |title=Boomer Esiason: Tim Tebow can't play, can't throw |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/08/24/boomer-esiason-tim-tebow-cant-play-cant-throw/ |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=ProFootballTalk |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Stephen A. |date=July 31, 2012 |title=Tebow for real – except for one thing |url=https://www.espn.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/8216049/stephen-smith-tim-tebow-real-deal-throwing-arm |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=ESPN.com}}

After the Broncos signed free agent Peyton Manning,{{Cite web |date=March 20, 2012 |title=Peyton Manning, Broncos agree to five-year, $96 million deal |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/peyton-manning-broncos-agree-to-five-year-96-million-deal-09000d5d827b9194 |access-date=June 16, 2023 |website=NFL.com |language=en-US}} Tebow was traded to the New York Jets on March 21, 2012, along with the Broncos' 2012 seventh round draft pick, in exchange for the Jets' fourth and sixth round picks.{{Cite web |last1=Cimini |first1=Rich |last2=McManus |first2=Jane |date=March 21, 2012 |title=Tim Tebow traded to Jets |url=https://www.espn.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/7720305/new-york-jets-denver-broncos-complete-tim-tebow-trade-second-time |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322135318/http://espn.go.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/7720305/new-york-jets-denver-broncos-complete-tim-tebow-trade-second-time |archive-date=March 22, 2012 |access-date=March 21, 2012 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} Jets special teams coordinator Mike Westhoff stated that Tebow would be used on special teams,{{Cite web |date=May 7, 2012 |title=Tim Tebow will see time on special teams, says Jets' Westhoff |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d828eaa46/article/tim-tebow-will-see-time-on-special-teams-says-jets-westhoff |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140107212537/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d828eaa46/article/tim-tebow-will-see-time-on-special-teams-says-jets-westhoff |archive-date=January 7, 2014 |access-date=November 3, 2012 |website=NFL.com |agency=Associated Press}} while head coach Rex Ryan and offensive coordinator Tony Sparano stated that he would also be used in the wildcat formation on offense.{{Cite web |date=August 2, 2012 |title=Tebow's wildcat package comes out to play |url=http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/jets/story/2012-08-02/jets-tebow-wildcat/56708802/1 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140107202418/http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/jets/story/2012-08-02/jets-tebow-wildcat/56708802/1 |archive-date=January 7, 2014 |access-date=November 3, 2012 |website=USA Today |agency=Associated Press}} The presence of Tebow throughout the season, in which the Jets struggled, created a controversy as the fans and media called for Ryan to bench the inconsistent Mark Sanchez in favor of Tebow.{{Cite web |last=Cimini |first=Rich |date=October 2, 2012 |title=Rex Ryan supports Mark Sanchez |url=https://www.espn.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/8449918/new-york-jets-rex-ryan-backs-mark-sanchez-starting-qb-tim-tebow |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104160848/http://espn.go.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/8449918/new-york-jets-rex-ryan-backs-mark-sanchez-starting-qb-tim-tebow |archive-date=November 4, 2012 |access-date=November 24, 2012 |website=ESPN.com}}

Tebow suffered two broken ribs during a road game against the Seattle Seahawks, but his injury was not confirmed until two days before the Jets' Thanksgiving game against the New England Patriots. He was active despite the injury, which was publicly revealed after the game.{{Cite web |last=Cimini |first=Rich |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Rex ranks as Gang's biggest turkey |url=https://www.espn.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/8666889/new-york-jets-rex-ryan-wrong-dress-injured-tim-tebow |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121125124217/http://espn.go.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/8666889/new-york-jets-rex-ryan-wrong-dress-injured-tim-tebow |archive-date=November 25, 2012 |access-date=November 24, 2012 |website=ESPN.com}} Tebow was inactive during the Jets' subsequent game against the Arizona Cardinals in which Sanchez was benched in favor of Greg McElroy.{{Cite web |last=Waszak Jr. |first=Dennis |date=December 3, 2012 |title=McElroy Replaces Sanchez, Leads Jets to 7–6 Win |url=https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/mcelroy-replaces-sanchez-leads-jets-win-17862664 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121205003354/http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/mcelroy-replaces-sanchez-leads-jets-win-17862664 |archive-date=December 5, 2012 |access-date=December 3, 2012 |website=ABC News}}

On April 29, 2013, Tebow was released by the Jets. He had thrown only eight passes and rushed 32 times in his one season with the team.{{Cite web |last=Rosenthal |first=Gregg |date=April 29, 2013 |title=Tim Tebow waived by New York Jets after one season |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000165204/article/tim-tebow-waived-by-new-york-jets-after-one-season |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130501072405/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000165204/article/tim-tebow-waived-by-new-york-jets-after-one-season |archive-date=May 1, 2013 |access-date=April 29, 2013 |website=NFL.com}}

The New England Patriots signed Tebow on June 10, 2013, the day before the team's mandatory minicamp;{{Cite web |date=June 11, 2013 |title=Patriots sign free agent QB Tim Tebow |url=http://www.patriots.com/news/article-1/Patriots-sign-free-agent-QB-Tim-Tebow/4736c80c-03e2-4f46-be62-52bf0d6d1c8d |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130615205919/http://www.patriots.com/news/article-1/Patriots-sign-free-agent-QB-Tim-Tebow/4736c80c-03e2-4f46-be62-52bf0d6d1c8d |archive-date=June 15, 2013 |access-date=June 11, 2013 |website=New England Patriots}}{{Cite news |last=Young |first=Shalise Manza |date=June 10, 2013 |title=Patriots bringing Tim Tebow into the fold |work=Boston.com |url=https://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/2013/06/10/patriots-bringing-tim-tebow-into-the-fold/JcqyYn5sCSPc3XWCNbwHZL/story.html |url-status=dead |access-date=October 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130614034257/http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/2013/06/10/patriots-bringing-tim-tebow-into-the-fold/JcqyYn5sCSPc3XWCNbwHZL/story.html |archive-date=June 14, 2013}}{{Cite news |last=Garafolo |first=Mike |date=June 10, 2013 |title=Patriots to sign Tim Tebow |work=USA Today |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/patriots/2013/06/10/tim-tebow-another-chance-bill-belichick-new-york-jets/2409685/ |access-date=June 11, 2013}} Tebow signed a two-year contract with no guaranteed money, although it did have playing time-based incentives in 2014. The move reunited him with Josh McDaniels, who had resumed his positions as Patriots offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.{{Cite web |last1=Schefter |first1=Adam |last2=Werder |first2=Ed |last3=Yates |first3=Field |date=June 11, 2013 |title=Pats to sign Tim Tebow |url=https://www.espn.com/boston/nfl/story/_/id/9362801/tim-tebow-sign-new-england-patriots-sources-say |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} Tebow played in the first two of New England's preseason games, against the Philadelphia Eagles and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers; he completed just five passes in both games, was sacked several times and intercepted once, intensifying criticism of his football acumen.{{Cite web |last=Callahan |first=Gerry |date=August 20, 2013 |title=Callahan: Harsh reality is Tim Tebow can't play |url=http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/columnists/gerry_callahan/2013/08/callahan_harsh_reality_is_tim_tebow_can_t_play |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Boston Herald}} He went 6-for-11 for 91 yards, throwing a pair of touchdown passes and one interception, and gained 30 yards on six carries against the New York Giants, but he also was sacked four times. He threw a total of two touchdown passes and two interceptions in the preseason and had a passer rating of 47.2 and completed 36.7% of his passes.{{Cite news |last=Pelissero |first=Tom |date=August 30, 2013 |title=Patriots cut 10 players but not Tim Tebow (yet) |work=USA Today |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/patriots/2013/08/30/tim-tebow-survives-friday-cut/2748861/ |access-date=October 8, 2021}} He was released from the Patriots on August 31, 2013, the day NFL teams were required to cut their rosters to 53. After being cut, he publicly thanked the Patriots organization for the opportunity and stated: "I will remain in relentless pursuit of continuing my lifelong dream of being an NFL quarterback."{{Cite web |last=Sessler |first=Marc |date=August 31, 2013 |title=Tim Tebow released by New England Patriots |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000236929/article/tim-tebow-cut-by-new-england-patriots?campaign=Facebook_news |access-date=October 8, 2021 |publisher=NFL}}

Though he began his broadcasting career in December 2013 on the SEC Network, Tebow continued to seek opportunities to resume his career as an NFL quarterback.{{Cite news |date=December 30, 2013 |title=Tim Tebow joins SEC Network, still pursuing NFL |work=Tulsa World |agency=Associated Press |url=https://tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/nfl/tim-tebow-joins-sec-network-still-pursuing-nfl/article_76ba25ca-71a1-11e3-80ed-0019bb30f31a.html |access-date=October 8, 2021}}

Tebow signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles on April 20, 2015, and was in competition with Matt Barkley for the Eagles third-string quarterback job.{{Cite web |date=April 20, 2015 |title=Tim Tebow Joins The Eagles' Mix At QB |url=http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/article-1/Tim-Tebow-Joins-The-Eagles-Mix-At-QB/8989b974-ef80-41c6-a858-be5e6d7f07ec |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150423222912/http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/article-1/Tim-Tebow-Joins-The-Eagles-Mix-At-QB/8989b974-ef80-41c6-a858-be5e6d7f07ec |archive-date=April 23, 2015 |access-date=April 20, 2015 |website=PhiladelphiaEagles.com}} Tebow played all four games in the preseason with no starts, going 21-of-36 for 286 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, while rushing for 82 yards and a touchdown.{{Cite web |date=September 3, 2015 |title=Source: Tim Tebow: Game Logs at NFL.com |url=http://www.nfl.com/player/timtebow/497135/gamelogs |access-date=October 1, 2015 |website=NFL.com}} He was released by the team on September 5, following the fourth preseason game.{{Cite web |date=September 5, 2015|agency=Associated Press |title=Source: Eagles release Tim Tebow |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/13588372/tim-tebow-released-philadelphia-eagles |access-date=September 5, 2015 |website=ESPN.com}}

On May 20, 2021, after spending six years out of football, Tebow contacted his former college coach, Urban Meyer, then coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars, about returning to the sport. The Jaguars signed him as a tight end to a one-year contract for the veteran minimum of $920,000, none of which was guaranteed.{{Cite web |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=May 20, 2021 |title=Tim Tebow officially signs contract with Jacksonville Jaguars |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/tim-tebow-officially-signs-contract-with-jacksonville-jaguars |access-date=May 20, 2021 |website=NFL.com}} The Jaguars released Tebow on August 17, 2021. He had not caught any passes or played on special teams during limited playing time in the preseason.{{Cite web |date=August 17, 2021 |title=Jacksonville Jaguars release Tim Tebow |url=https://www.clickorlando.com/sports/2021/08/17/jacksonville-jaguars-release-tim-tebow/ |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=ClickOrlando.com |publisher=Graham Media Group |agency=Associated Press}}

Tebow's football background combined with his outspoken views on Christianity led some media pundits to label him as a 'cultural phenomenon',{{Cite web |date=December 14, 2011 |title=If Tim Tebow Were a Muslim |url=https://www.wnyc.org/story/175594-tim-tebows-public-display-religion/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=The Takeaway |publisher=WNYC}}{{Cite web |last=Frank |first=Martin |date=June 6, 2015 |title=The Tebow Effect: how football, religion turned Eagles' fourth-string QB into a cultural phenomenon |url=https://www.courierpostonline.com/story/sports/nfl/eagles/2015/06/06/the-tebow-effect-how-football-religion-turned-eagles-fourth-string-qb-into-a-cultural-phenomenon/28626221/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Courier-Post}}{{Cite journal |last1=Parker |first1=Andrew |last2=Watson |first2=Nick J. |date=December 1, 2015 |title=Sport, Celebrity and Religion: Christianity, Morality and the Tebow Phenomenon |url=https://www.euppublishing.com/doi/abs/10.3366/swc.2015.0125 |journal=Studies in World Christianity |volume=21 |issue=3 |pages=223–238 |doi=10.3366/swc.2015.0125 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |via=Edinburgh University Press Journals}}{{Cite web |date=March 5, 2012 |title=Tim Tebow Approached to Star on 'The Bachelor' |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/tim-tebow-bachelor-chris-harrison-abc-broncos-296929 |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=The Hollywood Reporter}}{{Cite web |title=Sport, Celebrity and Religion: Christianity, Morality and the Tebow Phenomenon |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/285620029 |website=ResearchGate}}{{Cite book |last1=Adogame |first1=Afe |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=p25ADwAAQBAJ&q=tebow+cultural+phenomenon&pg=PT231l |title=Global Perspectives on Sports and Christianity |last2=Watson |first2=Nick J. |last3=Parker |first3=Andrew |date=November 27, 2017 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=9781317573463 |via=Google Books}} while some Denver Broncos teammates and team management reportedly described him as 'self-centered' and a hypocrite.{{Cite web |last=Jethani |first=Skye |date=January 7, 2012 |title=Is Tim Tebow a Hypocrite? |url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/is-tim-tebow-a-hypocrite_b_1184345 |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Huffington Post}}

A nationwide controversy surrounded Tebow's decision to appear in an ad funded by the socially conservative organization Focus on the Family that was broadcast on February 7, 2010, during Super Bowl XLIV on CBS.{{Cite web |title=Letter to Leslie Moonves |url=http://www.radaronline.com/sites/default/files/cbs1.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120403042324/http://www.radaronline.com/sites/default/files/cbs1.pdf |archive-date=April 3, 2012 |website=WERLDEF}}{{Cite news |last=Martin |first=Roland S. |date=February 8, 2010 |title=Nothing wrong with Tebow Super Bowl ad |publisher=CNN.com |url=http://www.cnn.com/2010/OPINION/02/06/martin.tebow.superbowl.ad/ |access-date=May 24, 2010}} There were two 30-second commercials which included Tebow's personal story as part of a pro-life stance. The abortion issue was not specifically mentioned in the ad.{{Cite news |last=Taylor |first=John |date=January 16, 2010 |title=Tebow and controversy, Super Bowl-style |publisher=NBC Sports |url=http://collegefootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/01/16/tebow-and-controversy-super-bowl-style/ |access-date=October 8, 2021}} Pro-choice groups criticized the ad,{{Cite web |last=Hill |first=Jemele |date=February 2, 2010 |title=Laud the courage in Tim Tebow's stand |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/commentary/news/story?page=hill/100202 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |publisher=ESPN}} while pro-life groups supported Tebow.{{Cite news |date=February 2, 2010 |title=More than 50,000 show support for Tebow pro-life Super Bowl ad |publisher=Catholic News Agency |url=https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/18521/more-than-50000-show-support-for-tebow-pro-life-super-bowl-ad |access-date=February 4, 2012}}

In 2011, Tebow was the first quarterback to be featured in ESPN's "Year of the Quarterback" series. The documentary, titled Tim Tebow: Everything in Between, followed him from the 2010 Sugar Bowl to the 2010 NFL draft. It premiered on January 6, 2011.{{Cite news |last=Jones |first=Lindsay |date=January 6, 2011 |title=Tim Tebow documentary on ESPN is captivating TV |work=The Denver Post |url=http://blogs.denverpost.com/broncos/2011/01/06/tebow-documenary-is-captivating-tv/6432/ |access-date=February 4, 2012}} On November 8, 2011, the documentary was released on DVD.

On May 31, 2011, HarperCollins released Through My Eyes, an autobiography that Tebow co-wrote with author Nathan Whitaker. Tebow details his early life growing up in Jacksonville and the Philippines, as well as his experiences as a college football quarterback.{{Cite web |last=Tebow |first=Tim |title=Through My Eyes by Tim Tebow, Nathan Whitaker |url=http://www.harpercollins.com/books/Through-My-Eyes/?isbn=9780062007285 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130618050313/http://www.harpercollins.com/books/Through-My-Eyes/?isbn=9780062007285 |archive-date=June 18, 2013 |access-date=May 11, 2013 |publisher=HarperCollins}} By March 4, 2012, it had spent 24 weeks on the New York Times best seller list.{{Cite news |date=March 4, 2012 |title=Hardcover Nonfiction |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/best-sellers-books/2012-03-04/hardcover-nonfiction/list.html |access-date=October 8, 2021}} It was named the #1 sports book of 2011.{{Cite web |last=Rovell |first=Darren |date=January 9, 2012 |title=Tim Tebow's Autobiography 'Through My Eyes': The Best Selling Sports Book Of 2011 |url=https://www.cnbc.com/id/45931888/Tim_Tebow_s_Autobiography_Through_My_Eyes_The_Best_Selling_Sports_Book_Of_2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523055209/http://www.cnbc.com/id/45931888/Tim_Tebow_s_Autobiography_Through_My_Eyes_The_Best_Selling_Sports_Book_Of_2011 |archive-date=May 23, 2013 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |publisher=CNBC}} Tim followed his memoir with a young readers' edition titled Through My Eyes: A Quarterback's Journey, also co-written with Whitaker.{{Cite web |title=Barnes & Noble {{pipe}} Through My Eyes: A Quarterback's Journey: Young Reader's Edition by Tim Tebow, Zondervan {{pipe}} NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover |url=http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/through-my-eyes-a-quarterbacks-journey-tim-tebow/1105869846?ean=9780310723455&itm=1&usri=tim+tebow+young+readers+edition |access-date=May 11, 2013 |publisher=Barnes & Noble}}

Tebow was the subject of a 2012 documentary on NFL Network's A Football Life entitled The Faces of Tebow.{{Cite web |date=September 7, 2012 |title=9/7 – 'The Faces of Tebow' Debuts Sept. 12 on NFL Network {{pipe}} DC Sports Net |url=http://dcsportsnetwork.com/?p=9289 |access-date=September 13, 2012 |website=Dcsportsnetwork.com}} He is a spokesperson for Nike, Jockey International, FRS Health Energy, and TiVo.{{Cite news |last=Fowler |first=Jeremy |date=April 8, 2010 |title=Nike announces partnership with Tim Tebow |work=Orlando Sentinel |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2010/04/08/nike-announces-partnership-with-tim-tebow/ |access-date=October 8, 2021}}{{Cite web |date=July 27, 2010 |title=Pro Football Quarterback Tim Tebow Signs with Jockey |url=http://blog.jockey.com/pro-football-quarterback-tim-tebow-signs-with-jockey/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111014132842/http://blog.jockey.com/pro-football-quarterback-tim-tebow-signs-with-jockey/ |archive-date=October 14, 2011 |access-date=December 9, 2011 |website=exposed: the Jockey blog |publisher=Jockey International}}{{Cite news |last=Talalay |first=Sarah |date=December 21, 2010 |title=Tebow endorsing FRS Healthy Energy |work=Sun-Sentinel |url=http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2010-12-21/sports/sfl-tim-tebow-frs-healthy-energy-drink-122110_1_tim-tebow-foundation-endorsement-deal-gators |access-date=October 8, 2021 |archive-date=December 27, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101227111916/http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2010-12-21/sports/sfl-tim-tebow-frs-healthy-energy-drink-122110_1_tim-tebow-foundation-endorsement-deal-gators |url-status=dead }}{{Cite news |last=Baig |first=Edward |date=November 14, 2012 |title=NFL quarterback Tim Tebow teams up with TiVo |work=USA Today |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2012/11/14/tebow-tivo-team-up/1700599/ |access-date=November 27, 2012}}

In 2013, Tebow collaborated with headphone maker Soul Electronics to create his own signature line of headphones. He launched a line which he called the 'Jet'.{{Cite web |last=Zaldivar |first=Gabe |date=January 12, 2013 |title=Tim Tebow Endorsing Headphones Because Sometimes the World Doesn't Make Sense |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1480851-tim-tebow-endorsing-headphones-because-sometimes-world-doesnt-make-sense |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Bleacher Report}}

In an episode that aired on February 4, 2016, Tebow competed against The Vampire Diaries actress Nina Dobrev on Spike's Lip Sync Battle. Tebow won the lip-sync contest with performances of "Take Your Time" by Sam Hunt and "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor.{{Cite magazine |last=Bacle |first=Ariana |date=February 1, 2016 |title=Lip Sync Battle: Tim Tebow channels Rocky Balboa |url=https://ew.com/article/2016/02/01/lip-sync-battle-tim-tebow-eye-tiger-video/ |access-date=February 18, 2019 |magazine=Entertainment Weekly}}

On December 30, 2013, Tebow was hired by ESPN as a college football analyst. He appears mainly on the SEC Network as co-host of SEC Nation, a travelling pre-game show, and contributed to ESPN's other platforms as well; Tebow made his debut on ESPN during the 2014 BCS National Championship Game. He did not give up on playing in the NFL, however, as his contract allowed him to continue to pursue opportunities as a player.{{Cite web |date=December 30, 2013 |title=Tim Tebow joins ESPN as analyst for SEC Network |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/10216946/tim-tebow-joins-espn-analyst-sec-network |access-date=December 31, 2013 |website=ESPN.com}}

Tebow signed a multi-year extension of his contract with ESPN in 2017. His new contract allowed him to continue to pursue his pro baseball career.{{Cite web |last=Pedersen |first=Erik |date=May 8, 2017 |title=Tim Tebow joins SEC Network, still pursues NFL career |url=https://deadline.com/2017/05/tim-tebow-espn-extension-sec-network-1202087010 |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Deadline.com}}

Tebow was asked to co-host ABC News' Good Morning America on January 31, 2014, two days before Super Bowl XLVIII, and was joined on the morning show by Eli Manning.{{Cite news |last=Guthrie |first=Marisa |date=January 28, 2014 |title=Tim Tebow to Guest-Host ABC's 'Good Morning America' |work=Hollywood Reporter |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/tim-tebow-guest-host-abcs-674875 |access-date=January 29, 2014}}{{Cite news |last=Chase |first=Chris |date=January 28, 2014 |title=Tim Tebow to join 'Good Morning America' on Friday |work=USA Today |url=http://ftw.usatoday.com/2014/01/tim-tebow-good-morning-america/ |access-date=January 29, 2014}}{{Cite news |last=Sacks |first=Ethan |date=January 29, 2014 |title=Tim Tebow to bring football knowledge to 'Good Morning America' ahead of Super Bowl |work=New York Daily News |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/tebow-bring-football-knowledge-gma-super-bowl-article-1.1595123 |access-date=January 29, 2014}}{{Cite news |last=Florio |first=Mike |date=January 28, 2014 |title=Tebow to co-host GMA on Friday |work=Pro Football Talk |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/01/28/tebow-to-co-host-gma-on-friday |access-date=January 29, 2014}}{{Cite news |date=January 28, 2014 |title=Tebow to appear on ABC's "Good Morning America" |publisher=Globe Newspaper Company |agency=Associated Press |url=https://www.boston.com/lifestyle/food/2014/01/28/tebow-appear-abc-good-morning-america/mH4faGfbBf7nBf1jHNF65M/story.html |url-status=dead |access-date=January 29, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202214803/http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/food/2014/01/28/tebow-appear-abc-good-morning-america/mH4faGfbBf7nBf1jHNF65M/story.html |archive-date=February 2, 2014}}

Tebow also hosted two television shows, the second season of Home Free, a reality show about home renovation on Fox in 2016,{{Cite web |last=Ho |first=Rodney |date=June 15, 2016 |title=Tim Tebow adds star power to Fox's 'Home Free,' set in Paulding County |url=https://www.ajc.com/blog/radiotvtalk/tim-tebow-adds-star-power-fox-home-free-set-paulding-county/fbOWTavbMgn5rZYBJbm5sM/ |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |language=English}} and Million Dollar Mile, an obstacle course competition show in 2019 on CBS.{{Cite web |date=November 12, 2018|agency=Associated Press |title=Tim Tebow adds offseason TV hosting job |url=https://www.jacksonville.com/story/sports/2018/11/13/tim-tebow-adds-offseason-tv-hosting-job/8392095007/ |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=The Florida Times-Union |language=en-US}}

On September 2, 2021, shortly after his release from the Jaguars, Tebow joined First Take, a talk show run by Stephen A. Smith.{{Cite web |last=Haring |first=Bruce |date=September 3, 2021 |title=Tim Tebow Joins ESPN's 'First Take' As Stephen A. Smith's Friday Sparring Partner |url=https://deadline.com/2021/09/tim-tebow-espn-first-take-stephen-a-smith-sparring-partner-1234826748/ |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Deadline |language=en-US}}

Tim Tebow was executive producer{{Cite web |last=Alexander |first=Bryan |date=August 15, 2018 |title=Tim Tebow turns filmmaker with inspirational sports drama 'Run the Race' |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/movies/2018/08/14/tim-tebow-has-made-his-first-film-exclusive/983039002/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=USA Today |language=en}} along with his older brother Robby Tebow, and actor in his first movie Run the Race which was released on February 22, 2019, in the U.S. This film is an inspirational sports drama with a football theme.{{Cite web |last=Satterfield |first=Ken |date=February 25, 2019 |title=Tim Tebow Makes the Christian Movie He's Always Wanted to See |url=https://wordandway.org/2019/02/25/tim-tebow-makes-the-christian-movie-hes-always-wanted-to-see/ |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Word&Way |language=en-US}}

{{Infobox baseball biography

| name = Tim Tebow

| image = Tim Tebow on May 15, 2017 (cropped).jpg

| image_size = 250

| caption = Tim Tebow getting ready for a hit in 2017

| team =

| number =

| position = Left fielder

| bats = Left

| throws = Left

| birth_date =

| birth_place =

| debutleague = MILB

| debutdate = April 6

| debutyear = 2017

| debutteam = Columbia Fireflies

| finalleague = MILB

| finaldate = July 21

| finalyear = 2019

| finalteam = Syracuse Mets

| statleague = MILB

| stat1label = Batting average

| stat1value = .223

| stat2label = Hits

| stat2value = 210

| stat3label = Home runs

| stat3value = 18

| stat4label = Runs batted in

| stat4value = 107

| teams =

• Columbia Fireflies (2017)
• St. Lucie Mets (2017)
• Binghamton Rumble Ponies (2018)
• Syracuse Mets (2019)

}}

In early August 2016, Tebow made announcements that he was interested in pursuing a career in professional baseball and invited all 30 Major League Baseball teams to his open tryout at the end of August.{{Cite web |last=Petchesky |first=Barry |date=August 9, 2016 |title=Tim Tebow Wants To Play In MLB, Will Fail At That Too |url=http://deadspin.com/tim-tebow-wants-to-play-in-mlb-will-fail-at-that-too-1785019397 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Deadspin}} Tebow had not played baseball full-time since 2005, his junior year in high school, when he was an all-state player and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim expressed interest in drafting him had he played his senior year.{{Cite web |last=Blackburn |first=Pete |date=November 15, 2016 |title=Report: Tim Tebow is pursuing a career in a professional baseball |url=http://www.foxsports.com/mlb/story/report-tim-tebow-is-pursuing-a-career-in-a-professional-baseball-080916 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=foxsports.com}} Additionally, he had a tryout with and received interest from the Los Angeles Dodgers prior to the 2016 Major League Baseball season.{{Cite web |last=Schefter |first=Adam |date=August 9, 2016 |title=Agents: Tebow to pursue career in pro baseball |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/17252762/former-nfl-qb-tim-tebow-pursue-career-professional-baseball |access-date=October 8, 2021 |publisher=ESPN}} On August 9, Tebow received contract offers (without tryouts) from two minor independent professional teams: the Schaumburg Boomers of the Frontier League and the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball.{{Cite web |last=Torres |first=Aaron |date=November 15, 2016 |title=Tim Tebow has already received his first pro baseball offer |url=http://www.foxsports.com/mlb/story/tim-tebow-has-already-received-his-first-pro-baseball-offer-080916 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=foxsports.com}}{{Cite web |last=Kline |first=Mike |date=August 9, 2016 |title=Tim Tebow Offered Contract By Schaumburg Boomers |url=https://www.boomersbaseball.com/news/archive/2016/1047/tim-tebow-offered-contract-by-schaumburg-boomers/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=boomersbaseball.com}}{{Cite web |title=Blue Crabs Extend Roster Invitation to Tim Tebow |url=http://www.somdbluecrabs.com/blog/post/109/blue-crabs-extend-roster-invitation-to-tim-tebow |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161008150710/http://www.somdbluecrabs.com/blog/post/109/blue-crabs-extend-roster-invitation-to-tim-tebow |archive-date=October 8, 2016 |access-date=October 1, 2016 |website=somdbluecrabs.com}} On the day before his tryout, Tebow was also offered a contract by Águilas del Zulia, a team in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League that plays winter baseball.{{Cite web |last=Passan |first=Jeff |date=August 30, 2016 |title=Sources: Tim Tebow offered contract from Venezuelan winter ball team |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/news/sources-tim-tebow-offered-contract-from-venezuelan-winter-ball-team-025823231.html |access-date=October 8, 2021 |publisher=Yahoo! Sports}} Tebow held his tryout on August 30 at Dedeaux Field in front of 40 MLB scouts (from 28 of the 30 MLB teams), Dodgers scouting director Billy Gasparino, and 50 members of the media.{{Cite web |last=Peter |first=Josh |date=August 30, 2016 |title=Tim Tebow displays power, earns mixed scouting reviews at MLB workout |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2016/08/30/tim-tebow-workout-mlb-scouts/89589422/ |access-date=October 8, 2016 |website=USA Today}}

File:Tim Tebow, Terry Collins 1.png, March 2017]]

On September 8, 2016, Tebow signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets and participated in the Mets' instructional league.{{Cite web |last1=Snyder |first1=Matt |last2=Perry |first2=Dayn |date=September 8, 2016 |title=Mets sign Tim Tebow and assign him to instructional league; here's what it means |url=http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/mets-sign-tim-tebow-assign-him-to-instructional-league/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=CBS Sports}}{{Cite web |last=Ackert |first=Kristie |date=September 8, 2016 |title=Mets sign Tim Tebow and give him $100,000 signing bonus; Sandy Alderson says move is about baseball, not marketing |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/mets/mets-expected-sign-tim-tebow-article-1.2782929 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=New York Daily News}}{{Cite web |last=Rubin |first=Adam |date=September 8, 2016 |title='Intrigued' Mets sign Tebow; not a publicity stunt |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/17492336/new-york-mets-sign-former-qb-tim-tebow-minor-league-contract |access-date=October 8, 2021 |publisher=ESPN}} In his first at bat with the organization, on September 28, 2016, Tebow hit a home run on the first pitch.{{Cite web |last=Snyder |first=Matt |date=September 28, 2016 |title=WATCH: Tebow hits home run on first pitch he sees in first game as pro baseball player |url=http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/watch-tim-tebow-homers-on-first-pitch-he-sees-in-first-game-as-a-pro-baseball-player/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=CBS Sports}} The Mets assigned him to the Scottsdale Scorpions of the Arizona Fall League,{{Cite web |last=Peter |first=Josh |date=October 12, 2016 |title=Tim Tebow makes Arizona Fall League debut, crashes into wall |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2016/10/11/tim-tebow-arizona-fall-league-debut/91905824/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=USA Today}} where he batted .194 in 70 plate appearances, with 20 strikeouts in 62 at bats.{{Cite web |last=Snyder |first=Matt |date=November 17, 2016 |title=Tim Tebow's Arizona Fall League season is over, and here's how he did |url=http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/tim-tebows-arizona-fall-league-season-is-over-and-heres-how-he-did/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=CBS Sports}}

Tebow spent most of 2017 spring training in the Mets' minor league camp, with a few appearances in major league camp.{{Cite web |last=Lichtenstein |first=Adam |date=March 9, 2017 |title=Tebow goes 0 for 3 in Mets debut |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/21409374/tebow_goes_0_for_3_in_mets_debut/ |access-date=June 30, 2018 |page=C1 |via=newspapers.com |newspaper=The Palm Beach Post}}{{Cite web |last=Klapisch |first=Bob |date=March 13, 2017 |title=Time for Mets to face facts about Tebow |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/21409554/time_for_mets_to_face_facts_about_tebow/ |access-date=June 30, 2018 |page=D2 |via=newspapers.com |newspaper=Tallahassee Democrat}} He began the 2017 regular season with the Columbia Fireflies of the Class A South Atlantic League.{{Cite web |last=Wild |first=Danny |date=March 20, 2017 |title=Tebow to begin season at Class A Columbia |url=https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-220120440 |access-date=March 20, 2017 |website=MiLB.com}} On April 6, 2017, Tebow hit a home run in his first at bat for the Fireflies, playing against the Augusta GreenJackets.{{Cite web |last=Newton |first=David |date=April 7, 2017 |title=Tim Tebow homers to left-center in first at-bat of minor league debut |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/19096354/tim-tebow-homers-first-bat-minor-league-debut-class-columbia-fireflies |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com}} He batted .222 with three home runs and 23 runs batted in for Columbia. On June 25, the Mets promoted Tebow to the St. Lucie Mets of the Class A-Advanced Florida State League.{{Cite web |date=June 25, 2017 |title=Mets promote Tim Tebow to high-A affiliate |url=http://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/mets-promote-tim-tebow-high-affiliate/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Sportsnet.ca |language=en-US |agency=Associated Press}} Once again he homered in his first day with his new club, St. Lucie, on June 28.{{cite web | url=https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/tim-tebow-home-run-st-lucie-mets-new-york-mets/ | title=Tebow Wastes Little Time, Homers on First Day with St. Lucie – CBS New York | website=CBS News | date=June 29, 2017 }} Tebow had a 12-game hitting streak between July 3 and 14.{{Cite web |last=Santucci |first=Jon |date=July 20, 2017 |title=Tebow cites comfort as reason for recent surge |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2017/07/20/tebow-cites-comfort-reason-recent-surge/491632001/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=USA Today}} Tebow finished the year at St. Lucie hitting .231, with 5 home runs and 57 strikeouts, in 216 at bats. Tebow expressed interest in returning for another season in 2018.{{Cite web |last=Axisa |first=Mike |date=August 31, 2017 |title=Tim Tebow will return to the Mets in 2018, though a September call-up is uncertain |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/tim-tebow-will-return-to-the-mets-in-2018-though-a-september-call-up-is-uncertain/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=CBS Sports}}

File:Tim_Tebow_-_Binghamton_Rumble_Ponies_-_09Jun18.jpg

On January 19, 2018, the Mets announced that they would invite Tebow to major league camp.{{Cite tweet |number=954375806133948416 |user=Mets |title=We've invited nine players to major league #SpringTraining}} Despite a poor showing in spring training (1-for-18 with 11 strikeouts), the Mets organization promoted Tebow to their Double-A team, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies of the Eastern League. On April 5, Tebow again hit a home run in his first at bat for a new team; with two men on base, he hit the first pitch over the right-field wall.{{Cite web |last=Baccellieri |first=Emma |date=April 5, 2018 |title=Tim Tebow Has Risen To Double-A, Goes The Distance On First Pitch |url=https://deadspin.com/tim-tebow-has-risen-to-double-a-goes-the-distance-on-f-1825033650 |access-date=April 6, 2018 |website=Deadspin}} On June 29, Tebow was named to the Eastern League All-Star Game; at the time, he was batting .261 for the season and .323 in his last 21 games.{{Cite web |last=Snyder |first=Matt |date=June 29, 2018 |title=Tim Tebow makes Eastern League All-Star team for Mets' Double-A affiliate |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/tim-tebow-makes-eastern-league-all-star-team-for-mets-double-a-affiliate/ |access-date=June 29, 2018 |website=CBS Sports}} In the All-Star Game, held on July 11, Tebow went 1-for-4 as the East team's designated hitter.{{Cite web |date=July 12, 2018 |title=Tim Tebow 1-for-4 with double in Eastern League's all-star game |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/24072536/tim-tebow-smacks-double-eastern-league-asg |access-date=July 12, 2018 |website=ESPN.com}}

On July 23, the Mets organization announced that Tebow had broken the hamate bone in his right hand, which required surgery and led him to miss the remainder of the season.{{Cite web |date=July 23, 2018|agency=Associated Press |title=Tim Tebow has broken hamate bone, likely out remainder of season |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/24175258/mets-minor-leaguer-tim-tebow-broken-hamate-bone-likely-rest-season |access-date=July 23, 2018 |website=ESPN.com}}

File:Tim Tebow (46478400914).jpg with the Mets, February 2019]]

In November 2018, the Mets assigned Tebow to the Syracuse Mets of the Class AAA International League.{{Cite web |date=November 8, 2018 |title=Tim Tebow promoted to New York Mets' Triple-A team in Syracuse |url=https://www.pressconnects.com/story/sports/baseball/minors/2018/11/08/new-york-mets-promote-tim-tebow-triple-team-syracuse/1929883002/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Press & Sun-Bulletin}} He spent spring training in 2019 with the New York Mets, and returned to Syracuse to start the 2019 season.{{Cite web |last=Domin |first=Hank |date=March 12, 2019 |title=Tim Tebow sent to minors, will start season with Syracuse Mets |url=https://www.syracuse.com/mets/2019/03/tim-tebow-sent-to-minors-will-start-season-with-syracuse-mets.html |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=syracuse.com}} On May 18, 2019, the Syracuse Mets held a Tebow bobblehead giveaway for the first 1,000 fans in attendance.{{Cite web |last=Mink |first=Nate |date=March 2, 2019 |title=Syracuse Salt Potatoes, Tim Tebow bobblehead and the best of Syracuse Mets 2019 promotions |url=https://expo.syracuse.com/sports/g66l-2019/03/a2b5107a854580/syracuse-salt-potatoes-tim-tebow-bobblehead-best-of-syracuse-met-2019-promotions.html |access-date=May 24, 2019 |website=syracuse.com}}

File:Tim_Tebow_and_Bo_Bichette.jpg shortstop Bo Bichette, July 2019]]

Between June 28 and July 5, 2019, Tebow hit three home runs over an AAA six game stretch for the Syracuse Mets, his best performance as a professional baseball player.{{Cite web |last=Rachuk |first=Stephan |date=February 17, 2020 |title=Tim Tebow comments on the XFL – "There was communication" |url=https://xflnewsroom.com/news/tim-tebow-comments-on-the-xfl-there-was-communication/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=xflnewsroom.com}}

On July 21, 2019, Tebow injured his left pinky fielding a ball in the outfield, requiring eight stitches. As a result, he missed the remainder of the 2019 season.{{Cite web |last=Townsend |first=Mark |date=August 10, 2019 |title=Tim Tebow's baseball season is over due to July hand injury |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/report-tim-tebows-baseball-season-is-over-due-to-july-hand-injury-142656198.html |access-date=August 13, 2019 |website=Yahoo! Sports}}

On February 25, Tebow hit his first major league spring training home run, a two-run home run against Detroit Tigers' reliever Alex Wilson.{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=R.J. |date=February 25, 2020 |title=Tim Tebow, in fourth season as Mets prospect, hits first spring training home run |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/tim-tebow-in-fourth-season-as-mets-prospect-hits-first-spring-training-home-run/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=CBS Sports |language=en}}

On February 17, Tebow and the Mets formally announced his retirement from professional baseball.{{Cite web |last=Polacek |first=Scott |date=February 17, 2021 |title=Tim Tebow Retires from Baseball After Playing 4 Seasons in Mets System |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2932328-tim-tebow-retires-from-baseball-after-playing-4-seasons-in-mets-system |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Bleacher Report}}{{Cite magazine |last=Coleman |first=Madeline |date=February 17, 2021 |title=Tim Tebow Retires From Pro Baseball |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/2021/02/18/tim-tebow-retires-baseball-mets |access-date=June 14, 2023 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |language=en-us}}

{{Cite web |title=Tim Tebow Fall & Minor Leagues Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=tebow-000tim |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}

Tebow accepted an invitation by the Philippines national team to play on their 2021 World Baseball Classic team. He was eligible to play for the Philippines as he was born there. He was scheduled to play in the qualifying round in March 2020 in Arizona, but the tournament was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.{{Cite web |last=DiComo |first=Anthony |date=February 26, 2020 |title=Tebow to represent Philippines in 2021 WBC |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/tim-tebow-philippines-world-baseball-classic |access-date=February 26, 2020 |website=MLB.com}}{{Cite web |last=Harrigan |first=Thomas |date=March 12, 2020 |title=World Baseball Classic {{sic|quali|fier|nolink=y}} games postponed |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/world-baseball-classic-qualifer-games-postponed |access-date=March 12, 2020 |website=MLB.com}}

In July 2023, Tebow was announced as a co-owner of an ECHL expansion team to be based in the Lake Tahoe area, later named the Tahoe Knight Monsters. Tebow was also previously a minor partner in the ECHL's Jacksonville Icemen and Savannah Ghost Pirates.{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/37990565/echl-approves-tim-tebow-owned-minor-league-team-lake-tahoe|publisher=ESPN|date=July 10, 2023|first=Greg|last=Wyshynski|title=ECHL approves Tim Tebow-owned minor league team in Lake Tahoe}}

Tebow is also an investor in USL Championship and USL Super League soccer club Sporting Club Jacksonville.{{cite web |last1=Barney |first1=Justin |title='We are Sporting JAX': Area's newest soccer club unveils its name, colors, crest |url=https://www.news4jax.com/sports/2023/12/12/jax-usl-soccer-franchise-set-to-make-major-announcements-today/ |website=News4Jax.com |date=December 12, 2023 |publisher=WJXT |access-date=January 16, 2024}}

{{Distinguish|U.S. national anthem protests (2016–present)}}

File:Tim Tebow Tebowing.jpg in prayer, which has since been referred to as "Tebowing"]]

"Tebowing" is a neologism for the act of kneeling on one knee in prayer specifically with one's head bowed and an arm resting on the one bent knee, a form of genuflecting.{{cite web |last=Weir |first=Tom |date=December 12, 2011 |title='Tebowing' becomes officially recognized as a word |work=USA Today |url=http://content.usatoday.com/communities/gameon/post/2011/12/tim-tebow-tebowing-officially-recognized-as-a-word/1 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107162621/http://content.usatoday.com/communities/gameon/post/2011/12/tim-tebow-tebowing-officially-recognized-as-a-word/1 |archive-date=January 7, 2012}}{{cite web |last=Barry |first=Dan |date=January 14, 2012 |title=He's a Quarterback, He's a Winner, He's a TV Draw, He's a Verb |page=A1 |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/14/sports/football/fascinated-by-tim-tebow-on-more-than-sundays.html?pagewanted=all |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119104728/http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/14/sports/football/fascinated-by-tim-tebow-on-more-than-sundays.html?_r=1&pagewanted=all |archive-date=January 19, 2012}} It is derived from Tebow's propensity for kneeling and praying. The origin of the phrase is credited to fan Jared Kleinstein, who posted a picture with friends on Facebook, in which they mimicked a pose of Tebow following the Broncos' comeback overtime victory over the Dolphins on October 23, 2011.{{Cite web |date=January 14, 2012 |title=The Birth of Tebowing: A Brief History |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1023460-the-birth-of-tebowing-a-brief-history |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=Bleacher Report}} The popularity of the picture led Kleinstein to set up a website showing pictures submitted by people depicting various interpretations of "Tebowing" all over the world. After two-and-a-half months, the site received 20,000 photograph submissions and 20 million page views from 2 million unique visitors.{{Cite magazine |last=Stoll |first=Ira |date=January 18, 2012 |title=Tebowing.com Founder Begins His Off-Season |magazine=Time |url=https://business.time.com/2012/01/18/tebowing-com-founder-begins-his-off-season/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120121013636/http://business.time.com/2012/01/18/tebowing-com-founder-begins-his-off-season/ |archive-date=January 21, 2012}} The New York Times wrote "it can be hard to tell whether [people Tebowing] are celebrating or mocking [Tebow] for his virtuous ways."

Pittsburgh mayor Luke Ravenstahl Tebowed as part of a bet with the mayor of Denver following the Broncos playoff victory over the Steelers in 2012.{{cite web |last=Simon |first=Mallory |date=January 10, 2012 |title=Pittsburgh's mayor 'Tebows' in defeat |publisher=CNN |url=http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2012/01/10/pittsburghs-mayor-tebows-in-defeat/ |url-status=dead |access-date=October 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120114034223/http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2012/01/10/pittsburghs-mayor-tebows-in-defeat/ |archive-date=January 14, 2012}} On October 9, 2012, Tebow was awarded the trademark to "Tebowing" after winning a legal battle with two fans who had expressed interest in trademarking the name.{{Cite web |last=Hanzus |first=Dan |date=October 19, 2012 |title=Tim Tebow awarded trademark to Tebowing |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000082438/article/tim-tebow-awarded-trademark-to-tebowing |access-date=October 19, 2012 |publisher=NFL}}

"Tebowing" was included as a feature in the Madden NFL 13 video game.{{Cite web |date=May 20, 2012 |title=Madden NFL 13 to feature 'Tebowing,' says creative director |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d82939f09/article/madden-nfl-13-to-feature-tebowing-says-creative-director |access-date=November 23, 2012 |website=NFL.com}}

On January 10, 2019, Tebow announced his engagement to Miss Universe 2017 and South African model Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters.{{Cite web |date=January 10, 2019 |title=Tim Tebow gets engaged to 2017 Miss Universe |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/25730086/tim-tebow-gets-engaged-former-miss-universe |access-date=April 7, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |location=United States}} The couple were married during a 30-minute ceremony in South Africa on January 20, 2020.{{Cite web |last=Napoli |first=Jessica |date=January 20, 2020 |title=Tim Tebow and Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters marry in South African wedding |url=https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/tim-tebow-marry-demi-leigh-nel-peters-south-africa |access-date=January 20, 2020 |website=Fox News |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Helling |first=Steve |date=January 20, 2020 |title=Tim Tebow and Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters Are Married: 'My Dreams Have Come True' |url=https://people.com/sports/tim-tebow-and-demi-leigh-nel-peters-are-married-my-dreams-have-come-true/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=People}} On January 14, 2025, they announced that they are expecting their first child.{{Cite web |title=Tim Tebow and Wife Demi-Leigh Are Expecting First Baby Together: 'So Over the Moon' (Exclusive) |url=https://people.com/tim-tebow-expecting-first-baby-with-wife-demi-leigh-tebow-exclusive-8773814 |access-date=2025-01-15 |website=People.com |language=en}}

File:Mike Johnson and the Tebows, 2024.jpg and his wife in 2024]]

Tebow has appeared repeatedly at events in opposition to abortion, including the 2021 March for Life, where he was a featured speaker. He has been described as "staunch pro-life activist", which he in part attributes to his mother's decision to carry him.{{Cite web |last=Gaydos |first=Ryan |date=January 29, 2021 |title=Tim Tebow's March for Life speech includes tale of mom dismissing advice to terminate pregnancy |url=https://www.foxnews.com/sports/tim-tebows-march-for-life-speech-mom-terminate-pregnancy |access-date=November 15, 2021 |website=Fox News}}

Tebow was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame on January 9, 2023, and was inducted on December 5, 2023.{{cite web|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/reggie-bush-tim-tebow-headline-2023-college-football-hall-of-fame-class-213602536.html|title=Reggie Bush, Tim Tebow headline 2023 College Football Hall of Fame class|last=Cooper|first=Sam|date=January 9, 2023|work=Yahoo! Sports|access-date=January 12, 2023}}{{Cite web |date=December 6, 2023 |title=Tim Tebow Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame |url=https://floridagators.com/news/2023/12/6/tim-tebow-inducted-into-the-college-football-hall-of-fame.aspx |access-date=February 24, 2024 |website=Florida Gators |language=en}}

Tebow is known for his outspoken Christian faith.{{Cite book |last=Jose, Nicholas |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=EtTVoYnyb9YC&q=tim+tebow+evangelism&pg=PA69 |title=Serving:True Champions Know That Success Takes Sacrifice |publisher=Gospel Light |year=2008 |isbn=978-0-8307-4579-1 |location=Ventura, CA |access-date=February 7, 2011}} p. 69{{Cite news |last=Thomasos, Christine |date=October 20, 2011 |title=Tim Tebow Brings In a New Wave of Christian Athleticism |work=The Christian Post |url=http://www.christianpost.com/news/tim-tebow-brings-in-a-new-wave-of-christian-athleticism-58871/ |url-status=dead |access-date=November 9, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130531125336/http://www.christianpost.com/news/tim-tebow-brings-in-a-new-wave-of-christian-athleticism-58871/ |archive-date=May 31, 2013}} In the Philippines, he preached at schools and villages, and assisted with medical care.{{Cite web |last=Cravey |first=Beth Reese |date=January 11, 2012 |title=Tim Tebow takes time to meet families in crisis amid hoopla of playoffs |url=http://jacksonville.com/sports/football/2012-01-11/story/tim-tebow-takes-time-meet-families-crisis-amid-hoopla-playoffs |access-date=October 7, 2021 |website=The Florida Times-Union}}{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=EtTVoYnyb9YC&q=tim+tebow+evangelism&pg=PA69 |title=Serving |publisher=Fellowship of Christian Athletes |year=2008 |isbn=9780830745791 |quote=One thing is for certain: Finding ways to reach out and serve others will always be a part of his life. That includes working with his father's ministry-the Bob Tebow Evangelistic Association-and assisting more than 40 national evangelists working in the Philippines. |access-date=February 7, 2011}} Tebow supports more than 40 national evangelists working in that nation. In the United States, Tebow has shared his Christian faith in prisons and schools, to church and youth groups, and at meetings and conferences.

Tebow is a strong advocate for faith-based abstinence, and has publicly stated that he had maintained his virginity before marriage.{{Cite web |last=Tedeschi |first=Bob |date=August 21, 2012 |title=A Chaste Tim Tebow Will Have Company in New York |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/22/sports/football/a-chaste-tim-tebow-will-have-company-in-new-york.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0 |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=The New York Times}}{{Cite web |last=Hill |first=Jemele |date=July 27, 2009 |title=Tim Tebow Practices What He Preaches |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/page2/story?page=hill/090724 |access-date=October 8, 2021 |website=ESPN.com}} Tebow has spoken multiple times at events presented by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Shane |date=February 17, 2020 |title=Tim Tebow speaks at FCA Banquet at Lowndes |url=https://www.valdostadailytimes.com/sports/local_sports/tim-tebow-speaks-at-fca-banquet-at-lowndes/article_6bdd49c1-770e-5f7a-a550-6c83d90b053b.html |access-date=October 7, 2021 |website=The Valdosta Daily Times}}{{Cite web |date=February 3, 2021 |title=Tim Tebow to speak at 'Living a Life of Significance' online event |url=https://www.mahoningmatters.com/local-news/tim-tebow-to-speak-at-living-a-life-of-significance-online-event-3316053 |access-date=October 7, 2021 |website=MahoningMatters.com}}

An Easter Sunday crowd of roughly 20,000 in Florida listened to Tebow on April 8, 2012. He only briefly mentioned his move from Denver to New York, saying, "Kind of got traded. I'm on another team—excited to be a Jet. Regardless of what happens, I still honor my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, because at the end of the day, that's what's important, win or lose. ... We need to get back to one nation under God, and be role models for kids."{{Cite web |last=Mingus |first=Jade |date=April 8, 2012 |title=Tim Tebow speaks to thousands in Georgetown |url=http://www.kvue.com/news/Tim-Tebow-speaks-at-Celebration-Church--146602355.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120410190601/http://www.kvue.com/news/Tim-Tebow-speaks-at-Celebration-Church--146602355.html |archive-date=April 10, 2012 |website=KVUE}}{{Cite web |date=April 8, 2012 |title=Tebow draws big crowd to Texas Easter service |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tim-tebow-draws-big-crowd-to-texas-easter-service/ |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=CBS News |agency=Associated Press}}

Honoring his commitment to his religious beliefs and his humanitarian work, Liberty University awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humanities to Tebow on May 15, 2021.{{Cite web |last=Couch |first=Jacob |date=May 16, 2021 |title=Tim Tebow implores students to view their work as worship at Liberty's 48th main Commencement ceremony |url=https://www.liberty.edu/news/2021/05/15/tim-tebow-implores-students-to-view-their-work-as-worship-at-libertys-48th-main-commencement-ceremony/ |access-date=May 17, 2021 |website=liberty.edu |publisher=Liberty University}}

Tebow envisioned a foundation to give back to others during his college career, and he, along with other University of Florida students, created "First and 15", raising funds for Uncle Dick's Orphanage{{Cite web |last=Altobelli |first=Lisa |date=December 22, 2011 |title=Tebow making volunteer work cool among young players |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8254c79e/printable/tebow-making-volunteer-work-cool-among-young-players |access-date=October 21, 2015 |website=NFL.com}} {{Clarify|date=July 2012}} in the Philippines, founded by his father's nonprofit association, the Bob Tebow Evangelistic Association. He also raised money for Shands Hospital pediatric cancer center in Gainesville and a Disney trip for disadvantaged children. Upon graduation from University of Florida, Tebow launched the Tim Tebow Foundation in January 2010.{{Cite web |title=About |url=http://www.timtebowfoundation.org/index.php/about/ |access-date=October 1, 2016 |website=Tim Tebow Foundation}} In 2013, Tebow was designated a Great Floridian by Florida Governor Rick Scott in recognition of his "major contributions to the progress and welfare" of Florida.{{Cite web |last=Carlyon |first=Hays |date=April 11, 2013 |title=Tim Tebow honored with Great Floridian designation |url=http://jacksonville.com/sports/college/florida-gators/2013-04-11/story/tim-tebow-honored-great-floridian-designation |access-date=April 16, 2013 |website=The Florida Times-Union}}

CURE and the Tebow Foundation announced plans to build a children's hospital in the fall of 2011 in the Philippines, the country where Tebow was born. The Tebow CURE Hospital in Davao City, on the island of Mindanao, holds 30 beds and specializes in orthopedics. CURE's 12th hospital worldwide, they hoped to heal deformities such as clubfoot, untreated burns, hydrocephalus and other conditions correctable with surgery. The cost of the project, $3 million, came from donations from CURE and the Tebow Foundation. The hospital includes a "Timmy's Playroom".{{Cite web |date=November 29, 2011 |title=Tim Tebow Foundation, CURE International to Build Children's Hospital in Philippines |url=http://cure.org/tebow |access-date=May 11, 2013 |website=CURE.org}}

The Tim Tebow Foundation includes Night to Shine, an event geared towards providing people with developmental and intellectual disabilities a safe space to have a prom.{{Cite web |title=Tebow's Night To Shine Ministry {{pipe}} Celebrating People With Special Needs |url=https://www.timtebowfoundation.org/ministries/night-to-shine |access-date=June 14, 2023 |website=Tim Tebow Foundation}}

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• Carlson, Norm, University of Florida Football Vault: The History of the Florida Gators, Whitman Publishing, LLC, Atlanta, Georgia (2007). {{ISBN|0-7948-2298-3}}.
• {{Cite magazine |last=Lake |first=Thomas |year=2013 |title=The Book of Tebow |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/longform/tebow/index.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131126162404/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/longform/tebow/index.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=November 26, 2013 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |location=New York |publisher=Time Inc.}}

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