Tim Tebow was the subject of a conversation held by former New York Jets general manager Mike Tannebaum during a radio interview recently, and Tannebaum admitted that while the popular Christian athlete has a lot of heart, trading for him was a mistake.

“Obviously we made a couple mistakes — trading for Tim Tebow most notably. But I would say beyond that, but we [could have done a better job with the bottom of our roster], especially toward the end,” Tannenbaum said on

Tebow was snatched up by New York in a fourth-round draft pick after he helped take the Denver Broncos to a playoff win in 2011, but it quickly became evident that the team didn’t know what to do with him. Tannebaum was let go when the Jets finished the 2012 season after having noticeable trouble finding the right place for Tebow. While his loyal fans were upset that his talents weren’t being utilized, the Jets seemed to think he just didn’t have what it takes to keep up, and veteran quarterback Mark Sanchez shouldered most of the burden on the field.

“I think his career is over without playing another position,” one NFL GM reportedly said of Tebow.

Coach Rex Ryan issued a statement after Tebow was cut loose, saying, “We have a great deal of respect for Tim Tebow. Unfortunately, things did not work out the way we all had hoped. Tim is an extremely hard worker, evident by the shape he came back in this offseason. We wish him the best moving forward.”

Tebow was picked up by the Patriots in the preseason but was quickly cut, but Tannebaum doesn’t think Tebow will have a hard time finding another opportunity, saying, “Tim obviously didn’t play well in the preseason with New England, but he’s a guy (who’s) incredibly passionate about his career,” Tannenbaum said. “I would never bet against Tim. We used to have an expression that Tim’s the type of guy who’s either going to be successful or die trying. His relentlessness and passion — I would think he’ll get another opportunity.”

Image via Wikimedia Commons