Tim Tebow, the popular NFL player who joined the New England Patriots as its newest member on Tuesday, told reporters he was thankful to his new team for the opportunity play and said he looked forward to working hard as pre-season practices begin in earnest.

Tebow, who was let go from the New York Jets in April after one season where he spent most of his time as a reserve on the bench, spoke with reporters after his first practice session with the Patriots in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

Terms of his contract were not officially disclosed.

"First and foremost I just want to thank the Patriots for giving me an opportunity. I'm very thankful," he said. NFL season begins in September.

Watch video of his comments here.

He called it an honor to play for head coach Bill Belichick, the team's offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and said he looked forward to learning under veteran quarterback Tom Brady.

In a media session ahead of the practice, Belichick called Tebow "a talented player, who's smart and who works hard," according to the Boston Globe.

Most experts believe Tebow will play a reserve role with the Patriots, as Brady is established as one of the top quarterbacks in the league.

Tebow, 25, who has been with two other teams in three years prior to his tenure with the Patriots, showed his familiarity with the winning franchise.

"It's a very successful franchise and, you know, I found that out first hand. I lost to them several times. So it's going to be a lot of fun," he said.

While Tebow's NFL areer has mostly been as a reserve, his is nonetheless a popular figure due to his strong work ethic, successful collegiate football career, and proclamation of Christian values.

Football experts have widely questioned his ability and skills in playing the quarterback position at the professional level, leading to lively debates about his future in the league.

"I'm looking forward to working hard every single day and getting a lot better, and learning under some great people," he said. "So that's all I got. But thank you all and God bless. I'm sure we'll be talking more soon."

Tebow left the dozens of gathered members of the press without answering questions.