Mets, Tebow agree to minor-league deal

Tim Tebow is heading back to the Big Apple, but this time he'll be playing baseball.

The former NFL quarterback, who played for the Denver Broncos and New York Jets, agreed to a minor-league contract with the New York Mets on Thursday, the club announced.

Tebow is expected to begin his professional baseball career as an outfielder in the Instructional League in Port St. Lucie, Fla.

The 29-year-old worked out for 28 major-league teams last week in California, with five to six clubs believed to have had genuine interest in signing him. Scouts raved about Tebow's power and speed, though the former Heisman Trophy winner was criticized for his defensive work and there are questions surrounding his ability to hit major-league pitching.

Tebow hasn't played organized baseball since high school after having to choose between that or football. He went on to become a star at the University of Florida before making his NFL debut in 2010 with Denver.

Having not played in the NFL since 2012, Tebow drew criticism from some who believed he was pursuing a baseball career for publicity. He has stated, however, his desire to try to make it to the majors is strictly about his passion for the game.

''It's not about publicity,'' Tebow said following his workout. ''It's definitely not about money. It's a pay cut to do this. Just pursue what you love, right? Regardless of what else happens. Regardless of if you fail, or if you fall on your face. If that's the worst thing that can happen, that's OK. When did that become such a bad thing? When did pursuing what you love become a bad thing, regardless of the result?"

The Atlanta Braves, Toronto Blue Jays, and Colorado Rockies were among the teams that were also reportedly interested in Tebow.