When the Denver Broncos drafted rookie Tim Tebow in the first round, it was assumed that the former Heisman trophy winner would be the third quarterback on the Broncos’ depth chart behind starter Kyle Orton and recently acquired Brady Quinn.
Orton’s play this preseason not only cemented his spot as the team’s 2010 starter, but also earned the former Purdue Boilermaker a one-year extension.
While it’s no surprise that Orton will be the starter when the Broncos take the field for their preseason opener in Jacksonville Sept. 12, it’s the battle for the number two spot that has raised eybrows in Denver, and across the league.
While Tebow has struggled at times this preseason, it’s been the more experienced Quinn who has had more trouble picking up head coach Josh McDaniels complex offensive scheme.
Orton is expected to play one or two series Thursday and likely, whichever quarterback follows Kyle Orton as the play caller will be named the Broncos’ backup for the regular season.
Regardless of who is named the backup, Tebow should see significant playing time on short yardage, and goal line situations.
