NFL Notes: Tim Tebow, Draft, Chargers & Patriots

Tim Tebow

Tim Tebow mentioned during an appearance on the Dan Patrick Show that he had multiple opportunities to play a position other than quarterback in the NFL, but it just wasn’t in his heart.

“For me it’s always about pursuing what’s in your heart, what you love, what you’re passionate about, and I love the game of football but what I really love doing is playing the quarterback position,” Tebow said, via Pro Football Talk. “I’ve had a lot of good opportunities to play another position but that just wasn’t in my heart. It wasn’t something I wanted to do. If I was going to make a change I’d rather make a change to baseball.”

Tebow added that he’s grateful for the opportunity the Mets extended him to play in their minor league system.

“Everything happens for a reason,” Tebow said. “I’m grateful for what I’m doing right now and my opportunities for the Mets. I’m truly excited about pursuing this.”

Draft

• Lance Zierlien of NFL.com spoke to two scouts in recent weeks who consider Notre Dame’s DeShone Kizer to be the top quarterback prospect in next year’s draft, ahead of Clemson’s Deshaun Watson.

Chargers

Former Chargers GM A.J. Smith sounds convinced that the team will remain in San Diego, even though they still have the option to relocate to Los Angeles if they can’t secure a new stadium in San Diego.

“The Chargers are staying here,” Smith told Kevin Acee Wednesday night, via the Union-Tribune. “They have to do a deal.”

In regards to the L.A. option, Smith says it’s not happening.

“The reality is, there is no option,” Smith said. “There is an option, but it will never be exercised.”

Beyond that, Smith mentions that the NFL actually “covets” the San Diego market.

“San Diego is coveted by the National Football League and the owners,” Smith said. “The League wants a team here. They want them to stay here.”

Patriots

• According to Doug Kyed, “it’s not looking good” for Patriots LB Dont’a Hightower and his status for Week 2, as he missed practice again on Thursday.
• Kyed adds that while TE Rob Gronkowski was at practice today, he didn’t appear to be moving around at 100 percent yet.