The Philadelphia Eagles landed free agent quarterback Mark Sanchez on a one-year deal worth $2.25 million. While there are incentives which could push the deal towards $4 million Eagles head coach Chip Kelly believes the signing of Sanchez was an easy decision labeling it a “no-brainer for us.”
“I’ve said many times that we will always look to add quality players at the quarterback position,” said Kellv to the teams website. “We consider it a key position in this game, so having the chance to add Mark to that group was a no-brainer for us. Mark has started 68 games in his career and has taken his teams deep into the playoffs multiple times, so we really like what he brings to the table from an experience standpoint. I also had the chance to see Mark play in college and have always had respect for his game and athletic ability.”
After being a fifth overall selection of the Jets in 2009 the “Sanchize” was part of a team that went to back to back AFC Championship games. Since then it has been down hill for Sanchez and the Jets. Last season the Jets drafted Geno Smith while Sanchez injured his shoulder in the preseason and was forced into surgery.
In an ironic twist, the Jets signed former Eagles quarterback Michael Vick to a free agent deal after releasing Sanchez.
“You can never have enough talent at the quarterback position on your roster, so when Mark became available we immediately became interested,” said Eagles general manager Howie Roseman. “He was obviously a very highly-touted player coming out of USC and has had valuable experience in this league. He’ll have the chance to come in and learn the playbook, and we feel he’ll be a nice veteran addition to the quarterback room.”
Sanchez is expected to backup Nick Foles which will keep Matt Barkley as the thrid string option in Philadelphia. G.J. Kinne is also on the Eagles roster.
