They Said He'd Never Make It
Tim Tebow won the Heisman Trophy, led Florida to two national championships, and became one of the most decorated college football players in history. Then he entered the NFL and everything changed.
Critics said he couldn't throw. They said his mechanics were wrong. They said he'd never make it as a pro quarterback. What they couldn't explain was how he kept winning.
In his first NFL season as a starter, Tebow led the Denver Broncos to the playoffs, including an overtime victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers with a 80-yard touchdown pass on the first play.
Tebowing
Through it all, Tebow refused to hide his faith. He knelt in prayer after touchdowns - a pose dubbed "Tebowing" that became a cultural phenomenon. He wore Scripture references on his eye black. He thanked God in every interview.
"I'm not trying to force my beliefs on anyone," he said. "I'm just trying to live out my faith the best I can."
A Platform Beyond Football
When his NFL career ended, Tebow didn't disappear. He started the Tim Tebow Foundation, which fights human trafficking and hosts "Night to Shine" proms for people with special needs in cities worldwide.
He played professional baseball into his 30s, wrote bestselling books, and became a motivational speaker. His platform expanded beyond what football ever provided.
God gave him a stage. He used it well.