Drew Bledsoe Defends Mark Sanchez, Rips New York Jets

Former New England Patriots quarterback Drew Bledsoe knows a thing or two about being thrown onto the scrap heap, which may explain his sudden affinity for Philadelphia Eagles signal-caller Mark Sanchez. 

The former Sanchize is Philly's temporary starter under center with Nick Foles nursing a clavicle injury, and Bledsoe is excited to see what he can do in Chip Kelly's explosive offense.

Not only did Bledsoe show support for Sanchez in a recent ESPN Radio interview, but he also blasted the manner in which the New York Jets handled him previously, according to Seth Walder of The New York Daily News.

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Going to play quarterback for the Jets ... it's kind of like, you know when they used to take the pretty young virgin up to the edge of the volcano and then just throw them in? That's kind of what it is when you play quarterback for the Jets. It just feels bad. Mark had to live with that for a long time. And people threw him under the bus like he was the whole reason for the demise of the Jets. To see him be able to come on to the field in a good system, with good talent and perform well, I'm just really happy for him.

"

Sanchez was Gang Green's quarterback for four seasons, and despite leading the Jets to the AFC Championship Game twice, he was dumped in favor of Geno Smith.

Although Bledsoe was far more accomplished when he was usurped by Tom Brady as a member of the Pats in 2001, perhaps the four-time Pro Bowler sees some of himself in the embattled Sanchez.

Bledsoe's comments are also proof positive that some players hold on to rivalries and grudges long after they have retired. A hit from Jets linebacker Mo Lewis effectively ended Bledsoe's tenure in New England, but he managed to get in a shot of his own 13 years later.

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