Everyone has an opinion on New York Jets' quarterback Mark Sanchez. Coaches have an opinion. Current teammates have an opinion on the quarterback. Past teammates and Jets members are voicing their thoughts on him. As the team continues to stress to competition happening between the now veteran quarterback and rookie Geno Smith, Sanchez has been open to a slew of criticism. Former Jets running back LaDainian Tomlinson is even weighing in on the debate.
The future Hall of Fame player spoke on all things New York Jets with the NFL Network. He believes that by default, Sanchez should be the starting quarterback for the team over the rookie Smith. He believes that Smith's offense at West Virginia does not yield itself to the Jets style of play.
"This is a West Coast offense, and really Mark Sanchez has that type of DNA in him because he played at USC in a West Coast offense. Early on, we probably will see Sanchez take the snaps at the starting spot. But here's the thing: in preseason, if Mark Sanchez doesn't show the ability to improve from turning the football over and that race is close between the two, Geno Smith will be the starter," Tomlinson said.
It is already assumed that Sanchez will begin the 2013 season as the team's starter. While Tomlinson is giving his vote for starter to Sanchez, he recognizes that the quarterback has a lot of issues that need improving. After playing with Sanchez in 2010 and 2011, Tomlinson believes that the quarterback lacks confidence in himself when out on the field.
"Mark has to start to trust himself. Mark does a great job in the film room but when he comes out on the field, he doesn't trust what he sees out there in terms of coverages and the timing with his receivers. If he starts to trust himself and not hesitate in throwing the football, then he possibly could turn his career around. I think it'll be tough at this point because rarely does a zebra change his stripes," Tomlinson said.
Jets fans are certainly hoping that Sanchez can change his ways and start producing wins for the team. Head coach Rex Ryan said the team is a long ways away from being able to name a starting quarterback. Sanchez and Smith appear to be a tied race at this point.
