Former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez was stabbed early Saturday morning in downtown Indianapolis.
According to Fox Sports, Sanchez is currently hospitalized and in stable condition. He was in town to call Sunday’s game between the Indianapolis Colts and Las Vegas Raiders for Fox.
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police officers responded to a “physical disturbance” around 12:30 a.m. that involved a stabbing and another injured individual outside a pub near West Washington Street and North Senate Avenue, according to a statement from Indianapolis police.
‘Verbal Argument’ Preceded Stabbing, Police Say
According to WTHR, the suspect involved in the incident has been taken into custody. Authorities later clarified that it was not a random act of violence.
“Mark Sanchez was injured in Indianapolis on Saturday and is currently recovering in the hospital in stable condition,” Fox Sports said in a statement on Saturday afternoon. “We are deeply grateful to the medical team for their exceptional care and support. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mark, and we ask that everyone please respect his and his family’s privacy during this time.”
Police stated that the incident involved two men who are not local residents. One sustained lacerations, while the other suffered injuries consistent with stab wounds. Both individuals received medical treatment.
Police also reported that one was detained at the scene, while Sanchez was immediately taken to the hospital. “This is believed to be an isolated incident that started as a verbal argument,” police told WTHR.
Mark Sanchez was a Star at USC, Drafted No. 5 Overall
Sanchez, 38, led college football in passing yards and touchdowns during the 2008 season, guiding USC to a Rose Bowl victory. He was selected fifth overall in the 2009 NFL Draft by the New York Jets, where he started for four seasons and posted a 4–2 record in playoff games.
Andy Lyons/GettyNASHVILLE, TN – DECEMBER 17: Quarterback Mark Sanchez #6 of the New York Jets warms up prior to the game against the Tennessee Titans at LP Field on December 17, 2012 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
However, an injury derailed his 2013 season, and he went on to play limited roles over parts of four additional seasons with three different teams.
He then began working on TV, first at ESPN then at Fox, who said Sanchez would no longer be calling Sunday’s game.
NFL World Reacts to the Stabbing of Sanchez
The official X account for the Jets to sent out messages of support for Sanchez. “Sending our thoughts and love to Mark Sanchez and his family. Hoping for a speedy recovery, 6,” they stated as a response to Fox Sports’ statement.
USC alum Keyshawn Johnson also reacted on X. “Prayers up for my guy and USC brother Mark Sanchez,” he wrote. “This is ridiculous!”
Emmanuel Acho also posted to X. “Trying not to freak out, but praying fervently for Mark’s healing,” he wrote. “Praying for his wife Perry’s peace in the midst of this chaos, and praying for his whole family. Mark is one of the greatest men you’ll ever know.”
Former New York Giants receiver Victor Cruz said, “Praying for my brother Mark Sanchez! One of the nicest guys in the world man.”
Top ESPN personality and former Colts punter Pat McAfee called the incident “heartbreaking” and “scary to read.” While former QB The Athletic analyst Chase Daniel posted, “Holy cow. Prayers with Mark.”
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