Former NFL quarterback and broadcaster Mark Sanchez is officially out at Fox Sports, over a month after his alleged attack on a man in Indianapolis.
“We can confirm that Mark Sanchez is no longer with the network. There will be no further comment at this time,” a spokesperson for Fox Sports told TMZ Sports.
Replacing the former New York Jets signal caller is former New Orleans Saints quarterback and Super Bowl XLIV MVP Drew Brees, who did broadcasting work for NBC during the 2021-2022 season.
Mr. Brees will make his Fox Sports debut during Fox’s NFL week 11 slate of games on Nov. 16. He will work with Mr. Sanchez’s former play-by-play partner Adam Amin and sideline reporter Kristina Pink, forming Fox’s #4 crew, according to The Associated Press.
“Drew is one of the best to ever play the game, and we couldn’t be more excited to have his prolific credentials and unique insights as part of our coverage on Sundays,” Fox Sports President of Production and Operations Brad Zager said.
Mr. Sanchez is accused of attacking 69-year-old Perry Tole on the night of Oct. 4 and trying to get into his truck. Mr. Tole, who was hospitalized for his injuries, stabbed and pepper sprayed Mr. Sanchez in what he said was self-defense.
Mr. Sanchez was in Indianapolis ahead of an Indianapolis Colts home game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Oct. 5, which Mr. Sanchez was slated to call as a color analyst.
Mr. Sanchez faces charges of public intoxication that endangers the life of another, battery resulting in serious bodily injury, battery resulting in bodily injury, and unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle. His trial, which got a new judge after the first judge assigned recused herself, is set to start Dec. 11.
In addition to the criminal allegations, Mr. Sanchez also faces a civil suit from Mr. Tole.
“While the recent news — and its timing — is understandably disappointing, our priority remains his continued healing and recovery,” Sanchez’s brother, Nick Sanchez Jr., said in a statement released Friday. “Mark deeply values his time at Fox and the exceptional colleagues he’s had the privilege to work with.”