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Come Fan with UsThursday, August 6, 2026

Former Jets GM says Mark Sanchez contract led to his firing

Former New York Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum said signing Mark Sanchez to a $58.25 million extension may have lead to his firing after last season.

USA TODAY Sports

Former New York Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum believes his faith in Mark Sanchez helped lead to the end of his time in New York after 16 seasons with the Jets. Tannenbaum, who served as the Jets general manager for the past seven seasons, signed Sanchez to a five-year, $58.25 million extension prior for the 2012 season, only to see him regress and struggle with ball control.

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In an appearance on NFL AM on Thursday, Tannenbaum said, “I don’t think I would have signed a quarterback to an extension knowing that he’d have 26 turnovers. That might be one of the reasons I’m right sitting here with you guys.” Last season, Sanchez threw only 13 touchdowns to 18 interceptions, added eight lost fumbles, and posted his worst rating since his rookie season at 66.9.

Following the Jets 6-10 record in 2012, Tannenbaum and several members of the Jets front office and coaching staff were fired. Despite Sanchez’s struggles, Tannenbaum maintains the faith, “I still think Mark’s going to be a good, credible quarterback in the NFL.”

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