Quarterback Tim Tebow was not among the 10 players the Patriots cut Friday, but about 12 more players will be moved from New England Patriots' roster, which must reach the regular-season limit of 53 by 6 p.m. ET Saturday, the USA Today reported.
Tebow, known for his work ethics and Christian faith, told Associated Press that he is “not sure” if his final performances on Thursday’s preseason finale game secured his spot on the team, but didn’t plan to worry about the outcome.
Tebow threw two touchdown passes and one interception against the New York Giants, contributing to the Patriot’s victory on Thursday night.
With just six seconds left, he lofted a pass 9 yards into the right corner and free agent Quentin Sims caught the ball, completing a touchdown, defeating the Giants 28-20.
Coach Bill Belchick will make the final call on whether Tebow will continue to play for the Patriots in the regular season that beginning on Sept. 5.
Tebow was 6 for 11 for 91 yards and one interception. He gained 30 yards on six carries. He was sacked four times.
Meanwhile, Eli Manning left with a 7-0 lead after throwing a 3-yard touchdown pass with 56 seconds left in the first quarter, boosting the morale of the team, who only had three offensive touchdowns in four games, going into the regular season.
For Tebow, his touchdown pass showed his improvement after poor performances in the first two preseason games.
“I think I’ve improved in a lot of ways,” Tebow said, according to AP. “One, learning this offense. Two, understanding more decision making. Getting the rhythm, understanding all the guys that I’m playing with.”
Tebow achieved only a 36.7% completion rate, which ranks him the last among all qualified passers this preseason, according to USA Today. He played in the first two preseason games, but not in the third.
Those released including tight ends Jake Ballard, Daniel Fells, and three others veterans. Defensive end Marcus Bernard, receiver Jonathan Haggerty and linebacker Mike Rivera also were released. Offensive linemen Luke Patterson and Matt Stankiewitch, fullback Ben Bartholomew and defensive linemen Gilbert Pena and Scott Vallone were waived.
