National Football League

Tebow could miss Broncos home opener this weekend

Published Aug. 18, 2010 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

With the news that Broncos rookie QB Tim Tebow missed Wednesday’s practice, it's possible the lefty could miss Sunday's home debut against the Detroit Lions.

The team didn't disclose what prevented Tebow from practice, but he took a big hit to his ribs during last week's game against the Bengals.

Practice observers noted that Tebow's been wearing extra protection around his rib area during practice this week.

If Tebow can't play against Detroit, that certainly could curtail his progress, as the big-bodied signal caller needs as much time behind center as possible.

Tebow probably has the steepest learning curve of any top quarterback who was available for this year's draft because of his poor footwork and inconsistent throwing mechanics.

He needs to be on the field as much as possible during the preseason in order for the coaches to adequately make any necessary adjustments in his delivery.