OPINION | Views expressed in this article reflect the author's opinion.

Tim Tebow learned during a live broadcast that he had been accepted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Joe Tessitore announced 18 players and four coaches inducted this year, and he did not include Tebow. Tebow played quarterback for the University of Florida from 2006 and 2009.

Tebow won Most Valuable Player honors in the 2009 BCS national championship game. He was the Heisman Trophy winner in 2007. He was also the first player in NCAA history with at least 20 rushing and passing touchdowns in a season.

Tessitore also included the University of Southern California running back Reggie Bush and Syracuse University defensive end Dwight Freeney before he said, “I forgot one name here.”

“The graphic was missing this because we also have a new Hall of Famer. He is arguably the most popular, the most successful, the singularly most impactful college football quarterback of the last generation or perhaps ever to play.”

Tessitore to Tebow, and said, “Timmy, congratulations,” and gave him a hug, as did fellow ESPN co-hosts Jesse Palmer and Dan Muller.

Tessitore said, “We know what you were as a player, but your commitment to the sport and the goodness that you’ve brought to everybody through the sport — you’re a Hall of Famer in every possible way.”

President of the National Football Foundation, Steve Hatchell, joined the four on the field and gave Tebow a football commemorating his induction into the Hall of Fame.

Tebow responded, “This is incredible. Did you guys plan this or something? Honestly, it’s just so humbling. Thank you. There’s so many people that are a part of this.”

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He said, “My granddad dreamed of getting the chance to see Florida win an SEC championship, and he died before that happened.”

“So when we were playing, we were playing for something a lot bigger than just winning or losing a game. Something that’s a lot bigger than just a pigskin.”

“You’re playing for family, for relationships, for loved ones. That’s why college football is unrivaled to me. Special game,” he said.

Tebow tweeted afterward, “Just incredibly honored and grateful for the opportunity and all who helped make it possible!! All glory to God.”

Following his time at Florida, Tebow played three seasons in the NFL. He now focuses much of his time on charity work through the Tim Tebow Foundation.

Last year, Tebow received the Sports Impact Award at the Christian radio K-LOVE Fan Awards.

“Ultimately, there is only one MVP,” he said during his acceptance speech, “and he died on a cross on a rescue mission for humanity, and he has commanded us to go defend the weak, protect the poor and go after those that are hurting.”

“We have a big job. Let’s go get our job done.”