Mark Sanchez might have some interest from teams on the free agent market, but do not expect the quarterback to sign anywhere soon. Remember that injured shoulder the quarterback suffered during the preseason because Rex Ryan wanted to win the battle of MetLife Stadium? Well that injury is coming back to haunt Sanchez as he tries to restart his career and it will dictate where he ends up signing.
ESPN.com is reporting that one of the reasons Sanchez was let go by the Jets was because he failed a medical physical regarding his shoulder. ESPN Insider Chris Mortensen reports that Sanchez is only at about 80 percent health after surgery to repair a torn labrum. While it is expected that Sanchez will be healthy come the start of the 2014 season, teams appear unwilling to sign the quarterback until they know more info.
According to Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Eagles have the edge on signing Sanchez. With just Nick Foles and Matt Barkley as their true quarterback options, Philadelphia would like a third option. While it seems like a waste to bring Sanchez in, that is who Chip Kelly likes. However, while the team's interest is high, they want more information regarding the status of Sanchez's shoulder before making a decision.
The longer Sanchez sits on the market, the more interest builds around him. The Eagles may feel like they have the edge on the quarterback, but they are not the only team in pursuit. The St. Louis Rams are a strong option for Sanchez. When the quarterback was first released, head coach Jeff Fisher came out in support of him, noting the Rams could have some interest considering Sam Bradford might not be healthy at the start of the year. With Brain Shottenheimer as the team's offensive coordinator, the Rams could be the perfect fit.
"I'd say that there is interest. I can't say how much. But there certainly would be interest,'' said Fisher, via USA Today Sports. "I don't have a backup with experience on the roster right now."
According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, the New Giants are also in the mix, along with the Cleveland Browns. Again, both teams only view Sanchez as a backup and not a potential starter. Until the quarterback can prove that his shoulder is healthy and he can return to a starting role, a glorified backup is all Sanchez will be.
