http://www.nj.com/eagles/index.ssf/..._sanchez_struggles_as_backup_quarterback.html Eagles minicamps: Mark Sanchez struggles as backup quarterback PHILADELPHIA -- Heading into training camp next month, the Eagles appear ready to roll with former New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez as their backup quarterback. That much was clear on Thursday, as Sanchez took all of the reps with the second team offense, and second-year quarterback Matt Barkley was firmly planted with the third team. Judging from those reps, however, Sanchez's spot on the depth chart could soon be changing. Yes, they were just a few (errant) throws in one practice of a long off-season, but Sanchez's first impression on those outside of the Eagles' organization was not a great one. "It's like learning a new language," Sanchez said of the Eagles' complex offense. A language he has clearly yet to master. Sanchez had the worst day of the four quarterbacks on the roster Thursday, missing a number of open throws and having a few others fall incomplete. One of his throws dropped to the ground with nobody within 10 yards of it. Another sailed about 5 feet over the head of running back Darren Sproles, who was wide open on the sideline. While Sanchez was struggling, the rest of the quarterbacks had a mostly impressive day. The third-stringer from last season, Barkley appears serious about winning the backup job this season: He was laser sharp for most of the practice. Fourth-string quarterback G.J. Kinne had his moments as well, and showed that he could have the strongest arm on the team. Starter Nick Foles had his moments as well, including a beautiful throw on the run to receiver Riley Cooper for a touchdown. As for any thought the rough day might have to do with his shoulder injury last season, Eagles head coach Chip Kelly said Sanchez has been full go during practices. "He's not limited at all," Kelly said. "He hasn't missed anything from the throwing in phase two to what we've done in the last three days." Sanchez will have plenty of time to improve from one bad day, and even though he is still learning the offense, he presents a better option at No. 2 behind Foles because of his experience. As the Jets starter, Sanchez took the team to two consecutive AFC Championship Games. Still, the backup spot quarterback should be up for grabs during training camp, and Barkley's year of experience in head coach Chip Kelly's offense was an advantage Thursday. "I don't care about that," Sanchez said of the competition. "I'm competing against myself, I'm competing against the defense. I'm doing everything I can to help this team win."
I imagine it's probably quite a culture shock to go from playing QB / offense in a Rex Ryan coached team to a Chip Kelly coached team. Like going from manning an irrelevant horse and buggy to manning a complex F-18 fighter jet. Having said that, I would expect him to struggle initially. He's only there in Philly for one year to get his bearings about him on the bench for a year. 2015, where ever he plays will be the big year for his career.
it is an OTA, his first after a year off, his first w/ a new team, his first in his 4th system in 4 years. Can we relax a bit?
so he should have been sharp throwing to live Wrs for the first time since missing a season w/ his throwing shoulder injured?
If he isn't still injured, he should be able to put the ball on the receiver during non-contact drills in shorts. If he is still injured, he shouldn't be out there.
none of us saw it, I saw another article that was very positive. it's hard to say what he should or shouldn't have done. He was cleared not that long ago, this was his first practice- not even a real practice. His head must be spinning from a)having offensive talent and b)learning another new system. Let's wait a little while before you guys go bash crazy. the results when he gets his chance to play again will matter, not an OTA in May.
Well he's probably never going to start for them so this is the only fun we can have going bash crazy on him.
he's going to start for someone again, maybe if Foles gets hurt or struggles it will be Philly but most likely it will be w/ another team in 2015.
I thought having offensive talent makes the quarterback's job easier? Granted it is OTAs, I wonder if he beats Barkley in a competition to be the backup
Maybe he can go to Oakland and be part of the endless parade of failed QB experiments once Shaub gets his over with.
