Idzik: I'm 'comfortable' with Sanchez being a Jet
Florham Park - January 24, 2013: John Idzik talks to media as Jets introduce new GM to the media. (Photo by Patrick E. McCarthy) Credit: Patrick E. McCarthy
John Idzik didn't want to discuss Darrelle Revis' future in his introductory press conference last week, but the Jets' new general manager has made it clear Mark Sanchez will remain with the team in 2013.
Idzik on Monday reiterated that there will be a quarterback competition next season, but added that he is "comfortable" with Sanchez being a Jet.
“I think he’s chomping at the bit,” Idzik said on WFAN's "Boomer and Carton" show. “And he wants to get going with his new coordinator. He’s all about competing. I got a really good feeling from Mark.”
“Yeah, I’m comfortable with Mark being a Jet. I told him as well, we’re going to add competition. ...It’s going to help make Mark and everybody else better.”
Sanchez -- was benched in favor of third-stringer Greg McElroy against Arizona in Week 13 -- finished the season with 18 interceptions, 13 touchdowns and a 54.3 completion percentage (his lowest since his rookie year).
Even worse, Sanchez has committed more turnovers (51) over the past two season than any other NFL quarterback.
Nevertheless, Idzik made it clear that "Mark is a New York Jet. We’re glad to have him. I think he’s a competitor.”
In some respects, the Jets have no choice but to feel "comfortable" with Sanchez. With the quarterback currently on a downward spiral -- and owed a hefty $8.25 million guaranteed in 2013 -- Idzik's hands are essentially tied.
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As for Revis, Idzik said he was "taken aback" by the attention paid to the trade speculation following his Thursday comments about the All-Pro cornerback. Echoing the sentiments he expressed Friday on NBC Sports’ ProFootballTalk, the GM said the Jets are still in the midst of evaluating their roster and assembling a coaching staff.
“But I called Darrelle just to make sure he knew exactly what was going on from our end,” Idzik said, “and it was good to talk to him. I thought it was well-received.”
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According to Idzik, Rex Ryan hired Marty Mornhinweg shortly before he accepted the GM position. But Idzik, who was aware of the offensive coordinator candidates, said he trusts Ryan and had no issue with the Mornhinweg hiring.
