Jets owner Woody Johnson said in a television interview that the team passed on Peyton Manning and he expects to see a “growth spurt” in Mark Sanchez.
The Jets explored signing Manning last week when he became a free agent, but extended Sanchez’s contract once it became clear Manning was not interested. Johnson, appearing on the FOX Business Network, said the Jets did not want Manning.
“We passed on him,” he said. “We’re signed up with our quarterback. We’ve got a pretty good tether, we’ve got five years. We like Mark.”
Johnson did admit the team explored the possibility of signing Manning.
“We have to,” he said. “Our fans expect us to look at every opportunity.”
Johnson said he expects Sanchez to flourish under offensive coordinator Tony Sparano, who replaced Brian Schottenheimer in January.
“I think we’ll see a so-called growth spurt this year,” Johnson said. “I think he’ll be very good with Tony’s offense.”