Watch CBS News

Jets Pondering Using Tebow As Running Back

NEW YORK (CBSMiami) – Tim Tebow has spent his career making the most out of some bad situations on the field. But injuries may force the New York Jets to put Tebow in a position he hasn't been in before, running back.

The Jets' backup running backs Bilal Powell and Joe McKnight are both injured and are likely out for Sunday's game for the Jets. So when Jets head coach was asked if the team could plug Tebow in at running back against the Patriots, he didn't hesitate.

"The answer is yes," Ryan said, according to Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News.

Given starting running back Shonn Greene's lack of speed, the Jets could have one of the slowest running back tandems in the league if Tebow plays running back against New England. However, it would be one of the most powerful.

Tebow's size, 6'3", 236 pounds, would make him one of the most difficult running backs to tackle if he runs in between the tackles as a running back.

The Jets originally envisioned using Tebow as a "wildcat" quarterback, but have yet to do much with the playoff winning quarterback this season. Bringing him in as a running back could be the ticket to giving the Jets running game a ground and pound philosophy offensive coordinator Tony Sparano likes.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.