Tebow-To-Jets Trade Causes Chaos In New York
BOSTON (CBS) -- The acquisition of one of the most popular and polarizing athletes in the NFL was enough to generate a stir, but the contract hangup and eight hours of limbo that followed before the deal became official only led to more hysteria in New York.
With that, Tim Tebow has officially arrived in New York City.
The trade, which sent a fourth- and sixth-round pick to Denver in exchange for Tebow and a seventh-rounder, was met with a mixed reaction from the New York media.
Perhaps the loudest voice in opposition to the Tebow trade was that of Steve Serby of the New York Post, who was not a fan of the move, to say the least.
"Welcome to the Ringless Bros. and Ryan and Tebow Circus," Serby wrote. "The Jets lusting after Tebow the way they did, all but tripping over themselves to announce at 1:03 p.m. that they had "agreed in principle" to bring Tebow-mania to New York, only means that [Mark] Sanchez better be the one praying. It means the only commandment in the Sanchise's football Bible now is Thou Shalt Not Stink. Or else. It is further evidence the Jets don't believe they have their Sanchise quarterback."
The Post also quotes Jets legend Joe Namath, who views the acquisition as a public relations move, not a football one.
"I am sorry, I do not agree with this situation," Namath said on ESPN Radio, per the Post. "I can't agree with it. I just think it's a publicity stunt. I really think it's wrong. I can't go for it. I don't think they know what they're doing over there right now.
"It appears the Jets are trying to grab headlines again just by making noise."
In regards to that aspect of Tebow going to New York, one marketing expert told the New York Daily News that it could work out rather well.
"Tim Tebow can be the king," the CEO and president of 5W Public Relations in New York told the Daily News. "There is no bigger place to shine than in New York City and I think the Tebow brand is one that transcends sports. I think the guy can get unlimited sponsorships in New York City."
Of all the stories coming out of New York on Thursday though, the most succinct and effective message was accomplished in the Metro, and it was done in just four simple words: "Let the circus begin."
While the merits of the Tebow acquisition on and off the football field will be questioned and debated for at least the next year, it's fairly clear we can all count on some entertainment out of New York.
