By Peter Gleason
Today is not only the first day of Eagles OTA’s at the NovaCare complex.
It’s also the first day of the rest of Mark Sanchez’ life as an NFL quarterback.
Left for dead — not literally but maybe so by many fans — at the end of last season, Sanchez, who was a free agent, preferred to re-sign with the Birds.
And if you think Sanchez is just going to hand the starting quarterback job over to Sam Bradford, you don’t know Sanchez
He’s heading to training camp expecting a battle.
At least, that’s how Sanchez explained his decision to re-sign with the Eagles this offseason to Rob Ellis on “Breakfast on Broad.” Despite the prevailing theory that the position is Bradford’s to lose, Sanchez believes he’ll have every opportunity.
“Really just talking with Coach Kelly and knowing I’m coming with the opportunity to compete for the starting job,” he said. “That was important to me.”
It’s not impossible that Sanchez is under center on opening day, either. If Bradford shows any rust or is slow to pick up Philly’s offense, Sanchez could realistically be the best option. The Eagles apparently prepared for the possibility as well, adding playing-time incentives into Sanchez’s new contract, according to Spotrac.
That being said, Sanchez winning the job is unlikely provided Bradford is healthy and ready to play. The Eagles saw what Sanchez could do in 2014, and while he’s a capable backup, it’s safe to say he’s no long-term solution.
