Brady Quinn Voices Concern for Mark Sanchez Following Arrest

Mark Sanchez's recent hospitalization and arrest following an alleged incident in Indianapolis on October 4 prompted Fox Sports to seek a last-minute replacement for their broadcast of the Las Vegas Raiders versus Indianapolis Colts game.

Brady Quinn, a former NFL quarterback, received the call while preparing for Big Noon Kickoff in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Just five minutes before the show aired, he learned he would be stepping in for Sanchez.

“It’s been a whirlwind to say the least, not much sleep and mixed emotions,” Quinn shared via text message. “Obviously concerned for Mark’s health and the well-being of all those involved, but at the same time excited for the opportunity to call a game.”

Quinn, 40, expressed his appreciation for the support from Fox and the coaching staff of both teams, acknowledging the challenges of such short notice. “However, it’s not ideal. I pride myself on preparation, and there’s not enough time to prepare in the manner I am accustomed to,” he added.

Instead of heading directly to Indianapolis, Quinn opted to drive back to Columbus, Ohio, to collect a suit and review game footage. He utilized his Sprinter van and the car service Jeevz to conduct Zoom meetings and analyze tape during his journey.

Arriving in Columbus around 7 p.m., he continued his preparations until late into the night, even connecting with Colts head coach Shane Steichen and several assistants he knew from his time in the league.

After a few hours of sleep, Quinn embarked on a three-hour drive to Lucas Oil Stadium, arriving by 9 a.m. to prepare for the broadcast alongside play-by-play announcer Chris Myers.

The absence of Sanchez also meant that the broadcast crew was without a sideline reporter. “So it was just Chris and me talking ball for three hours, which I love,” Quinn remarked. “Hopefully, the fan bases enjoyed the call. You can never make everyone happy, especially in lopsided outcomes, but given the circumstances, I thought everyone did very well.”

This situation felt oddly familiar for Quinn; in 2013, he joined the New York Jets as a backup to Geno Smith after Sanchez was sidelined due to injury. Now, over a decade later, he found himself once again filling Sanchez's shoes, albeit in a different capacity.

As of now, Fox has not disclosed whether Quinn will continue as an NFL analyst or if another replacement will take over while Sanchez navigates his recovery and legal challenges stemming from the incident in Indianapolis.