Mark Sanchez’s Shoulder Surgery Will End His Season

Mark Sanchez had shoulder surgery that will end his season and could also end his career as a quarterback with the New York Jets.

The team announced Sanchez’s surgery on Tuesday. The shoulder injury happened during the team’s third preseason game against the Giants.

At the time, USA Today reported that the quarterback insisted he would rehab the torn labrum. However, the team announced the injury would require surgery.

Sanchez’s surgery was performed by Dr. James Andrews, who has been a consultant for the Jets QB in the past. Mark released a statement about his surgery, saying:

“The injury was recovering at an encouraging rate early on, and I avoided surgery as long as I could, but ultimately I was counseled by the doctors that they simply would have to repair my shoulder.”

The injured quarterback was seen on the sideline Monday night while rookie Geno Smith threw three touchdown passes as the Jets upset the Falcons 30-28.

ESPN notes that Mark Sanchez is expected to make a full recovery after the surgery. The QB added that he looks forward to getting back in the game next year. However, it likely won’t be with the Jets. Sanchez is signed with the franchise through 2016 because of a three-year extension he received in March 2012.

However, Sanchez’s cap number next year is $13.1 million and the Jets are committed to rookie Geno Smith. Because of this, it’s expected to cut ties with Sanchez before a $2 million roster bonus is due in March.

Mark Sanchez has been the Jets’ starting quarterback for four season. During that time, he enjoyed highs and lows. Along with going to two straight AFC Championship Games, he also established himself as the face of the Jets. However, his playing power started tapering off and he hit bottom last season with the now-infamous “butt fumble.”

While Mark Sanchez’s shoulder surgery likely means his days with the Jets are done, he could still have a chance with another NFL team.

[Image via Debby Wong / Shutterstock.com]