Mcelroy leaps from 3rd string to starter
NEW YORK — Mark Sanchez is no longer the New York Jets’ franchise quarterback.
He might not even be the backup.
Rex Ryan decided to bench Sanchez on Tuesday in favor of Greg McElroy after the fourthyear quarterback had another miserable performance in a 14-10 loss at Tennessee on Monday night that eliminated New York from playoff contention.
“I think it’s best for our team, and for this game,” Ryan said during a conference call.
So, it’ll be McElroy under center for his first NFL start when the Jets (6-8) play the San Diego Chargers at home Sunday. Ryan hasn’t decided whether Sanchez or Tim Tebow — listed as the No. 2 quarterback — will be the backup.
While Sanchez blew the second chance Ryan gave him a few weeks ago, Tebow was leapfrogged by a third-stringer, fueling speculation that the team has little confidence in him as a quarterback.
“I have to look at what I think is the best for the team and not necessarily the individual,” Ryan said. “I’ll say this about Tim and I’ve always said it: I know he wants to help this team be successful in the worst way and there’s no doubt about that.”
Sanchez threw four interceptions Monday night and wasn’t able to handle a low snap with the game on the line, ending the Jets’ hopes to get back into the postseason.
Things got worse after the game for Sanchez, who received a series of death threats from one disgruntled fan on Twitter. League spokesman Greg Aiello said the NFL’s security staff was aware of the man’s threats and was working with the Jets to assist on the matter. The team declined comment through a spokesman.
Ryan said after the loss that he wasn’t ready to decide who would start against the Chargers, but told Sanchez he would be making a change at quarterback by going with either McElroy or Tebow.
“He respected my decision,” Ryan said. “That’s not easy, that’s for sure.”
After talking to his staff and members of the organization Tuesday, Ryan chose McElroy.
“This is my opinion, and I do believe that it’s best for our team that Greg is our quarterback,” Ryan insisted. “Every decision I make is based on what I believe is the best decision for the team.”