Tim Tebow Receives Deacon Jones Trophy and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award: A Legacy Cemented
In a moment that has stirred waves of admiration across the college football world, legendary Florida Gators quarterback Tim Tebow has been honored with two of the sport’s most iconic accolades — the Deacon Jones Trophy and the esteemed Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
Though both awards are traditionally reserved for current players, this rare dual recognition comes as a tribute to Tebow’s lasting impact on the game, leadership on and off the field, and unwavering commitment to excellence. This unprecedented move by the award committees signifies not just recognition of past performance, but also a celebration of enduring influence in the world of football and beyond.
Tebow, a two-time national champion and 2007 Heisman Trophy winner, is widely regarded as one of the greatest college football players in history. His unique combination of passion, athleticism, and leadership helped redefine the quarterback position during his time with the Gators from 2006 to 2009. He finished his college career with over 9,000 passing yards, 88 passing touchdowns, and more than 50 rushing scores — a dual-threat weapon the likes of which college football had never fully seen before.
The Deacon Jones Trophy, named after the legendary NFL defensive end, typically honors the nation’s top defensive player, but in Tebow’s case, it’s being awarded for his contributions to the game’s spirit, sportsmanship, and inspirational leadership — qualities Deacon Jones himself embodied.
The Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, usually given to the top senior or fourth-year junior quarterback in college football, has likewise been presented to Tebow as a special lifetime achievement, recognizing his continued work to inspire athletes, build communities, and promote the values of hard work and faith through his foundation and broadcasting career.
This special dual honor reaffirms what fans have long believed: Tim Tebow is not just a champion on the field, but a lasting icon of what college football stands for — heart, grit, and purpose.
