Jets finally have Sanchez's true backup in Stanton

BY NICK ST. DENIS

Less than a week after the Jets handed quarterback Mark Sanchez a $40 million contract extension, Gang Green signed up for his insurance policy.

The Jets signed Drew Stanton, formerly of the Lions, Friday to a one-year deal worth $1.25 million.

Stanton will take on the task of Sanchez's backup, a position held the last two years by Mark Brunell. Stanton most recently was the Lions' third-stringer, sitting behind Matthew Stafford and backup quarterback Shaun Hill.

"The nice thing is, we're all going to be learning Tony Sparano's offense together," Stanton said, according to ESPNNewYork.com. "My goal is to help Mark produce on the field and to help this organization win football games."

Jets' Brunell gets some 1st-team reps Tues.

Rex Ryan had New York Jets backup quarterback Mark Brunell take some of the first-team repetitions Tuesday durning practice.

Was it a motivational tactic to light a fire under quarterback Mark Sanchez? Sure.

Did it work?

"I don't know," a somewhat reserved Sanchez told reporters Tuesday. "We'll see Sunday."