Is it Tim Tebow Time in Denver? (NFL)

It wasn't that long ago that NFL pundits questioned the ability of Florida quarterback Tim Tebow to play in the pros.

Now, it seems that Tebow has come such a long enough way that seasoned quarterback Kyle Orton might be either the back up to Tebow, or dealt to give the young quarterback the full-time job once occupied by John Elway.

Orton is reportedly still on the trade block, and the Dolphins may still be interested in him.

Tebow, apparently, has received a great deal of confidence from the Broncos coach staff. Though it seems risky for the Broncos to hand the job to Tebow, it might be with the intention that Denver is looking beyond this season.

It's very possible that Denver management has their eye on the long term. The AFC will be particularly tough this season with the Patriots, Jets, Steelers, Ravens, Colts, and Chiefs looking to return to the playoffs. Meanwhile, Denver is coming off a 4-12 season.

Still, the situation is delicate in the Mile High City.

What if Orton is actively shopped and the Broncos can't find the right compensation? Should Tebow flop, Orton would fill in and will immediately have some resentment towards the organization that decided to give his starting job to an inexperienced quarterback. It also doesn't help that Orton is in the final year of his contract, and intended for this season to be a showcase of his ability.

Supposedly, there is no real positive or negative relationship between Tebow and Orton. Neither player seems to exhibit much of an ego, so it's plausible that the Broncos are simply looking for some healthy competition between the two.

For now, expect more talk about a quarterback controversy, more grumblings from players who believe the team needs to win now with the experienced Orton, and yet more opportunities for Tebow to be on the field. Tebow has a unique skill set, and it will be up to new head coach John Fox and his staff to perhaps shape the offense based on his talents.

The 2011-2012 season will be an interesting one in Denver.

Heck, the preseason will be interesting, too.