Tim Tebow joins ESPN

— -- Former Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow has agreed to a multiyear deal to join ESPN as an analyst for the SEC Network, it was announced Monday.

"I am so excited that ESPN has given me this incredible opportunity," Tebow said in a statement. "When I was 6 years old, I fell in love with the game of football, and while I continue to pursue my dream of playing quarterback in the NFL, this is an amazing opportunity to be part of the unparalleled passion of college football and the SEC."

Tebow's primary role with the new network will be as an analyst for SEC Nation, a traveling pregame show that will originate from a different SEC campus each week. The show will debut before the Texas A&M-South Carolina game in Columbia, S.C., on Aug. 28, 2014.

The former Florida quarterback will also contribute to a variety of ESPN platforms, including "SportsCenter," ESPN Radio and the network's Heisman coverage.

Tebow will make his debut as an analyst on Jan. 6 during ESPN's pregame coverage of the Vizio BCS National Championship.

"Tim is an SEC icon with a national fan base and broad appeal. He will be a significant contributor to the compelling content we will deliver with the SEC Network," said Justin Connolly, ESPN senior vice president, programming, college networks. "Tim brings a wealth of knowledge about the game, the conference and the passion among SEC fans."

Tebow's role with ESPN will not preclude him from continuing to pursue opportunities in the NFL. He was with the New England Patriots before being released prior to the regular season. He also has played for the New York Jets and Denver Broncos.