The New York Jets will attempt to trade quarterback Mark Sanchez after the season, the New York Daily News reported on Wednesday.
The news comes a day after Sanchez was benched by the Jets in favor of Greg McElroy, a former seventh-round pick who entered the season as the team’s third-string quarterback. The Daily News report is somewhat surprising given the unwavering support the Jets had demonstrated for Sanchez until now.
The Jets traded first and second-round picks, and three players to the Cleveland Browns in 2009 in order to move up to the No. 5 slot where they drafted Sanchez. They signed him to a five-year, $50 million deal that included $28 million guaranteed, and they reached the AFC Championship Game in his first two seasons in the league. However, without as much support from a dominant defense and running game, the Jets struggled when Sanchez was asked to do more for the offense. He responded by committing 50 turnovers the past two seasons — more than any other quarterback.
Sanchez’s salary for 2013 includes $8.25 million in base pay. If the Jets are unable to find a trade partner, the Daily News says Sanchez would likely be brought back by the team where he would compete for the starting job.
The other interesting aspect of the Daily News’ report is the speculation that the Jets will attempt to bring in Michael Vick in the offseason. Vick suffered a brutal concussion in Week 9 and has been replaced by Nick Foles as the Eagles’ starting quarterback. Philly is expected to release him before his multi-million roster bonus is due in March. The Jets could be the team most likely to pursue him — head coach Rex Ryan reportedly loves Vick — and then we would have another lovely Jets circus on our hands.
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