The New England Patriots cut quarterback Tim Tebow from their roster on Saturday throwing serious doubt over the former college star's future in the professional game.

Tebow joined the Patriots this offseason after he was released by the New York Jets where he spent last year as a rarely used back-up to Mark Sanchez.

A former Heisman Trophy winner and two-time national champion with the University of Florida, Tebow has a strong personal following among fans but has struggled to transform his success at the college level into the pro game.

The 26-year-old always faced a tough task to make the roster with the Patriots, who have future Hall of Famer Tom Brady as starting quarterback and Ryan Mallett at backup.

But after hearing the news, Tebow took to Twitter to thank the Patriots for his chance and express his determination to continue in the NFL.

"I would like to thank (Patriots owner Robert) Kraft, coach (Bill) Belichick, coach (Josh) McDaniels and the entire Patriots organization for giving me the opportunity to be a part of such a classy organization," wrote Tebow.

"I pray for nothing but the best for you all. I will remain in relentless pursuit of continuing my lifelong dream of being an NFL quarterback," he added.

Tebow was drafted by the Denver Broncos in 2010 and in his second year took the Broncos on an improbable run to the playoffs, beating the Pittsburgh Steelers before losing to the Patriots.

He also quickly become a major celebrity, with his popularity going well beyond the NFL.

Deeply religious and with a clean-cut image, he became a magnet for sponsors, signing a range of massive endorsement deals which earned him an estimated $4 million a year.

(China Daily 09/02/2013 page24)