Sanchez believes it's time to step up

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Mark Sanchez is aware that his level of growth from a season ago will go a long way in helping determine just how far the Jets' journey goes in 2011.

"Oh, that's going to be it every year, especially these first few," the third-year quarterback said Monday. "It's my improvement that determines any kind of ceiling this team can have and our potential. We have all the potential in the world and now it's time to realize that, for me to step up my game and up my completion percentage early in the game and cut back on the interceptions.''

Sanchez also said there were times when he might've tried to force things so he could appease one receiver over another, something he said won't be happening this year.

"I think that's natural and I'm not afraid to admit that," Sanchez said. "As a young guy, you see all these superstars around and it's, 'Let's get so-and-so a catch in the first quarter to make sure he's happy. Oh yeah, Dustin [Keller] is in there, let me try to fit this ball down the field.' ''

L.T. OK with pay cut

LaDainian Tomlinson had no qualms about getting his salary reduced, an act the Jets believe was necessary to give them financial flexibility with the $120-million salary cap.

Tomlinson was due a base salary of $2.6 million this season and reportedly now will make $1.1 million.

"There's a great opportunity for us to win and that's the No. 1 thing in my mind," the running back said.

Extra points

An Internet report stated the Jets shopped wideout Jerricho Cotchery with hopes of clearing cap space. General manager Mike Tannenbaum refused to confirm the report . . . Tannenbaum said the Jets have reached out to DE Shaun Ellis about a possible return . . . Cotchery (back) and Brandon Moore (hip) are on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.