It's official. Tim Tebow is leaving behind the mountains of Denver for the bright lights of New York.

The Denver Broncos traded the quarterback to the New York Jets on Wednesday after announcing they had signed quarterback Peyton Manning the day before.

Denver general manager Brian Xanders said under the trade deal the Broncos will receive fourth- and sixth-round draft picks, while New York gets a seventh-rounder -- all in 2012.

A Class Act

During Tuesday's news conference, Broncos executive John Elway said Tebow was handling the loss of his starting quarterback position with the Broncos with class.

Elway said Tebow was "disappointed but understanding" when told of Denver's plans to sign former Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning.

Tebow's reaction didn't surprise Elway, who said he's the kind of guy he hopes his daughter would marry.

Tebow, a devout Christian, led the Denver team back to the playoffs last season for the first time since 2005. He's been a role model since his college days at Florida where he led the Gators to two national titles.

"He's going to be a great player wherever he is," Manning said.

Several teams were said to be in discussions with the Broncos about a trade for the former Heisman trophy winner.

The addition of Tebow is expected to complement Jets starting quarterback Mark Sanchez, who received a $40.5 million contract extension, with $20.5 million guaranteed, earlier this month.

The Jets also had pursued Manning.