New York Jets’ QB Mark Sanchez receives much needed support from team members – NFL News Update
New York Jets’ quarterback, Mark Sanchez, finally found some respite as some of his teammates jumped to his support, amid calls for his replacement due to his recent slump in performance.
The last one week has seen many changes in the Jets' team, which included offensive coordinator, Brian Schottenheimer, leaving the team never to come back again, forcing them to hire former Miami Dolphins' coach, Tony Sparano as a replacement.
The criticism by fans meant for Sanchez was something that is certainly not new but recently NYDailyNews reported that there were players out there in the team who wanted the young QB replaced with Peyton Manning.
One player went to the extent of calling Sanchez “lazy”, which questioned his ability to lead the team to the Super Bowl.
These players were not without reason to justify their demand.
The ending weeks of this season have seen Sanchez drastically decline in terms of his performance along with his turnovers and missed opportunities, especially against the New York Giants and Miami Dolphins, the games that resulted in losses and saw the
Jets eliminated from the playoffs.
However, now the quarterback has found the much needed support from some of the Jets' players and Sanchez has already received the vote of confidence from head coach, Rex Ryan, which is exactly what he personally needs at the moment.
The support from teammates in contrast to opposition appears more solid and open.
Some of these players included guard, Matt Slauson, tight end, Dustin Keller, and centre, Nick Mangold.
They extended their support for their colleague and took to radio stations, television and newspapers to register their confidence in Sanchez.
Slauson talking to Newsday, defended Sanchez and said he was the “hardest working” quarterback he has ever played with and has immense potential.
He further added that Sanchez had led them to AFC championship last year and could do it again, but the rest of the team has to play its part as well.
"Mark is heading in the right direction. He is going to be a great quarterback”, Slauson said.
Nick Mangold was no different when he appeared on ESPN 1050's "The Michael Kay Show".
Mangold denied that he ever heard any opposition from other team players, saying that Sanchez was the guy who could get the task done.
“Mark Sanchez is my guy. He's the one I want to go to battle with. I wouldn't be too keen on seeing that being changed”, Mangold said.
Dustin Keller also did not keep himself away from supporting his teammate while talking to Newsday.
"I've never, ever heard anyone question his work ethic. I think Mark's great work ethic is something that no one can argue. I really wish that any sources that believe that to be true would step forward", Keller said.
Apparently it seems that Sanchez will be able to survive all the heat against him after all, with the coach and players out there to support him.
Tags: