Tim Tebow has two broken ribs

Wondering why Tim Tebow didn’t play in the New York Jets’ 49-19 loss to the New England Patriots on Thanksgiving? He has two broken ribs.

“They need a little time to get better,” Tebow after the game, adding that the broken ribs are making it more difficult for him to breathe.

Tebow has had a limited role in the Jets’ offense this season after being acquired from the Denver Broncos in March. He was expected to add a dynamic element to the offense, particularly in the wildcat package, but he is averaging only about seven plays on offense.

He said he thinks the injury occurred during a game against the Seattle Seahawks two weeks ago.

“I didn’t really know,” he said. “I just kept playing and started to feel it later on.”

He said he could have played Thursday if absolutely necessary.

“I was ready to go if they needed me,” he said. “Obviously, it wasn’t ideal. I just wanted to be there for my teammates and do whatever I can to help.”

Jets Coach Rex Ryan said he noticed that Tebow’s breathing sounded different.

“I was standing there and I was like, ‘I’m not going to play this kid,’” Ryan said. “I wouldn’t play my son in that kind of situation. To Tim’s credit, he wanted to be there for his team.”

ALSO:

Texans finally tame the Lions in overtime

Peyton Manning’s road back to the top in Denver

Watch Ndamukong Suh kick Matt Schaub in the groin