Philadelphia Eagles release Gators QB Tim Tebow, DB Jaylen Watkins, other Florida cuts

Despite trading Matt Barkley and seemingly having a spot open for a third quarterback, the Philadelphia Eagles on Saturday released former Florida Gators signal caller Tim Tebow, according to ESPN‘s Adam Schefter.

Tebow, who lasted through four preseason games with the Eagles – his fourth NFL team, showed improvement from his stint with New England two years ago but apparently not enough to remain with Philadelphia into the season.

Many believed Eagles coach Chip Kelly would retain Tebow for gadget plays, two-point conversions and to serve as an emergency option at quarterback. Instead Tebow, who resigned from his post with the SEC Network in order to return to the league, is without a job entering the 2015 season.

Tebow finished the fourth preseason game, his only extended action, 11-of-17 for 189 yards with two touchdowns, including a long 45-yard completion, and a fourth-down interception; he also took four carries for 32 yards, with a long gain of 17.

Whether he will ever see action on an NFL field again remains to be seen. If not, these are his final highlights.

"We didn't feel like [Tim Tebow] was good enough to be the #3 QB right now." http://t.co/qyrO1fb9vm

— NFL (@NFL) September 5, 2015

Other cuts

Philadelphia also released defensive back Jaylen Watkins, the team’s No. 101 overall pick in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Watkins was injured for a large part of 2014 and inconsistent during the 2015 preseason. He will likely catch on with another team.

The Miami Dolphins released kicker Caleb Sturgis, the team’s fifth-round draft choice two years ago, and running back Mike Gillislee.

The Oakland Raiders released undrafted free agent defensive tackle Leon Orr.