Tebow ‘Forced’ on Owner Woody Johnson, Sources Say

Was Tim Tebow forced on NY Jets owner Woody Johnson? According to the New York Times report, Johnson told GM candidate Ted Sundquist that Tebow was “forced” on him.

Johnson eventually warmed to the idea of bringing Tebow to New York, but it took convincing. The owner and the others interviewing candidates reportedly were looking for an “exit strategy” for the Tebow situation.

Another candidate that interviewed for the job told the Daily News that in his interview, Tebow did not come up.

If Johnson’s claims are to be believed, it would appear that the Jets owner is making fired GM Mike Tannenbaum — who supposedly had final say on all personnel matters — the fall guy for the Tebow trade. When reached for comment, Tannenbaum said he was not yet prepared to speak on Jets-related matters.

The News reported during the season that both the Jets and Tebow would look to end their relationship after the season. Though Johnson apparently was looking for an “exit strategy” from the Tebow situation, the solution does not appear difficult to find.

The acquisition of Tebow was a failure. He attempted just eight passes in his 12 games played for the Jets. He rushed for 102 yards and averaged 3.2 yards per carry for the 6-10 club.