The clock is ticking for Mark Sanchez. The New York Jets owe him a $2 million roster bonus on March 25, something they are not likely to give him. With a trade looking slim to none, Sanchez is expected to be released come next week. However, the former starter will have plenty of options once a free agent that could start out west with a return to California.
Sanchez's fate with the Jets has essentially been sealed. The team is bringing in Michael Vick for a visit over the weekend. If things go well and Vick does not have outrageous contract demands, the veteran will be signed and Sanchez will be sent packing. Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network reported that if Sanchez were to become a free agent, he would be swept up as a potential starter immediately. Is that still the case after players like Josh McCown and Matt Cassel already signed?
The Oakland Raiders already hinted that their starting quarterback for 2014 might not be on the roster already. Bringing Sanchez back out west could be a nice change of pace for the quarterback. He did play his best football in the state of California. Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com reports that while the Raiders have talked to Matt Schaub about a trade, Sanchez is the real favorite if available.
Oakland is desperate for a quarterback. Terrelle Pryor is on the outs. Matt McGloin showed signs of life, but the team is not committed to him. General manager Reggie McKenzie wants a big name and according to him, Sanchez is that guy.
If the Raiders go in another direction, the Tennessee Titans could make a move. Jake Locker is coming off surgery to repair a Lisfranc injury. Early reports say the quarterback is still on crutches and might not be ready for training camp. With little talent behind him, the Titans will need to make a move to add depth. The team was considered a favorite to draft a rookie as a potential starter, but Sanchez could be the smarter signing.
Outside of the Raiders and Titans, it is backup central. Sanchez could easily head to the St. Louis Rams or Carolina Panthers, but as a glorified backup. The quarterback's future will become more clear in the coming week.
