Mark Sanchez is a free man. After five roller coaster years with the New York Jets, the quarterback was released over the weekend. Sanchez's fate with the team was essentially sealed when New York opted to draft Geno Smith in the second round last year and claim a quarterback competition would take place. After suffering a preseason shoulder injury, Sanchez's future was even more uncertain. Now on the free agent market, where does the quarterback land?
According to St. Louis Rams head coach Jeff Fisher, Sanchez could be a solid addition to his team. Fisher told USA Today Sports that he would be very interested in bringing in Sanchez. Right now, the Rams have Sam Bradford as the penciled in starter, but after suffering a torn ACL last season, it is uncertain if he will be ready to start immediately. Kellen Clemens is no longer with the team after signing a contract with the San Diego Chargers. That leaves Austin Davis, who no one knows.
"I'd say that there is interest. I can't say how much. But there certainly would be interest,'' Fisher said, via USA TODAY Sports Sunday at the league's owners meetings. "I don't have a backup with experience on the roster right now.''
Joining the Rams certainly makes sense. Current offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer worked with Sanchez during 2009 to 2011, easily the quarterback's best years. He helped when several road playoff games under Schottenheimer and would well in the offensive system. Fisher noted the two have a strong relationship and the team likes his championship experience.
The Cleveland Browns are another favorite to land Sanchez. The team was very interested in landing Matt Schaub, but he went to the Raiders. They tried to trade for Kurt Cousins and were denied. They showed interest in Michael Vick who went to the Jets. Right now the team has Brian Hoyer who is recovering from a torn ACL. The team will draft a rookie quarterback, but they need a reliable backup who could potentially start.
The Browns are trying to create a little bit of excitement in the franchise. While Sanchez is mostly known for his infamous butt fumble, the quarterback does have quality years under his belt. He could really drive the Cleveland Browns offense if given the chance.
