Will Jets try Tim Tebow at running back? Maybe says Rex Ryan

• Jets' backfield injuries could lead to Tebow lining up behind Sanchez
• Rex Ryan says backup QB could be a power option
• Tebow and Sanchez have already been deployed simultaneously at points during season

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Tim Tebow: Quarterback, Wildcat operator, personal punt protector, spokesman, preacher,

GQ

model.

And now, running back.

Maybe.

The New York Jets' all-things-listed-above star could line up behind Mark Sanchez this Sunday against the New England Patriots to help a corps of running backs that could be without the injured Joe McKnight and Bilal Powell.

So said Rex Ryan at his press conference on Thursday.

"That's a possibility," Ryan said. "The thing about Tim, with him being a football player like we've always talked about, by playing quarterback he knows all the positions. So can you plug him in at running back? Can you plug him in at tight end? I think the answer is yes."

So why Tebow? Does Ryan believe his skill set lends itself to playing running back?

"You start with his skill set, but his skill set would be more based on power," Ryan said. "He's not going to be a blazer compared to other running backs. He's got power."

Tebow has lined up at running back in the shotgun this season but only as a blocker. Ryan's saying Tebow is more inclined to be a power runner indicates he could be an option in short-yardage situations.

Starting running back Shonn Greene is a solid power runner as well, though, so perhaps some fullback or H-back options are in the works as well.

"Shonn brings a ton of power with him," Ryan said. "I don't know how different that would be. Shonn Greene has been a good back in this league and he still is. That's why he's our starter."

But in this league, teams need a few backups. Tebow might be one of them this weekend. Beyond that, who knows?

"It's not like we're going to put (Antonio) Cromartie back there," Ryan said of the cornerback and sometimes wide receiver.