Philadelphia Eagles Rumors: Tim Tebow Winning Over Chip Kelly, Matt Barkley Could Be Traded

The Philadelphia Eagles could soon have a quarterback controversy after rumors this week that Tim Tebow is rapidly winning over coach Chip Kelly, to the point that the team may even trade Matt Barkley away.

Kelly signed Tebow this offseason in what many believed was a move to gain a “camp arm,” a player who could help the team make it through the preseason while minimizing work for the still recovering Sam Bradford. But it quickly became apparent that Kelly had other plans for Tebow, including rumors that the Philadelphia Eagles coach wanted him to become a two-point conversion specialist.

Ultimately, the NFL decided not to go with a plan that would have moved the two-point conversion line up to the 1-yard line — which would have made the hard-running Tebow almost unstoppable — but Kelly reportedly is still just as high on Tebow.

ESPN reported on the situation this week.

“Philadelphia Eagles coach Chip Kelly continues to be impressed by quarterback Tim Tebow, who will earn a spot on the team if he doesn’t make any major errors the rest of the preseason, a team source tells ESPN’s Dianna Russini.

“The source said Kelly’s excitement for Tebow is getting stronger. Kelly is impressed by Tebow’s running skill, and although he’s not perfect, he’s improved throwing the football, making him valuable with the new two-point rule and in short-yardage situations.”

The report went on to say that the Eagles are rumored to be making former third-string quarterback Matt Barkley available for trade, clearing the way for Tim Tebow to make the roster.

Though he may technically fill the third-string quarterback role, it seems as if Tim Tebow could be used more as a specialist in Kelly’s offense. The Eagles coach is known for his wide-open and innovative offensive schemes, and Tebow could be used as a change of pace for the team.

But at the same time, Tim Tebow has made strides as a traditional quarterback. Working with noted throwing coach Tom House, Tebow has made strides in his throwing motion and is getting the ball out much quicker.

“Being able to continue to work this summer with Tom and [QB coach Ryan Day], I feel like I just keep getting better,” Tebow told CSN Philly. “I just tried to go over and over everything and work on my footwork and drills and everything so that it comes a little more second nature.”

There is still a way to go to see if there’s any truth to the rumors surrounding Tim Tebow. The Philadelphia Eagles still have three more preseason games, and Tebow will reportedly need to minimize mistakes in order to cement his spot on the roster.

[Image by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images]