The New York Jets quarterback rumors will not stop until the team has officially declared a starter and the team begins winning games. Until that happens, reports surround Tim Tebow, Mark Sanchez and any other possible starting quarterback will continue to swirl. As of now, with less than five months from the start of the 2013 season, Mark Sanchez will start under center in Week One. As Jets insist there is a quarterback competition taking place, Sanchez says he is ready and confident about where he is as a player and where the team is headed.
Sanchez has been the starter since he was drafted in 2009. There has never been a backup in place to challenge him in that position. However, a dismal 2012 season, led him to be benched by third stringer Greg McElroy and began the start of the trade rumors. But alas, Sanchez is guaranteed $8.25 million in 2013, therefor remaining in New York. As mini camps opened for the team, Sanchez says he is ready to take on the new season.
"My heart and soul is into this thing. That's really where my head's at. I'm fired up about this year and hope it's a good one," Sanchez said.
While the team says they are confident in the abilities of Sanchez as a starter, they are building a competition with the quarterbacks. After signing David Garrard in the offseason, head coach Rex Ryan says they are trying to push everyone to become better. Sanchez says the signing never shook his confidence and he is ready to be the best player he can be.
"Your confidence never wavers. I'm confident that we're going to go out and win every time we play. I'm confident that I'm going to complete the ball. If it doesn't happen, then you try to fix it," Sanchez said.
Since 2011, Sanchez has recorded 52 turnovers, the most by anyone in the league. In 2012, he threw for 2,883 yards and 13 touchdowns with 18 interceptions and nine fumbles, a career-high. In an attempt to better himself in the offseason, Sanchez began training with former NFL quarterback Jeff Garcia, working on accuracy and getting mentally prepared.
As Sanchez begins preparation, the Jets continue offseason moves. The team let go of veteran Calvin Pace in the offseaon, only to re-sign him to a one-year deal right before camps opened. The 32-year old recorded 13 sacks in the last three seasons. He will help with the team's pass rush focus, working opposite Antwan Barnes.
