Last week, the Denver Broncos drafted quarterback Paxton Lynch from Memphis. Although this seems like a move by the Broncos in getting a starter quarterback, Mark Sanchez says he doesn't feel threatened by Lynch's presence.
In fact, he sees the draft pick as an affirmation of his status as the team's starter. He even said that he would take the opportunity of working with Lynch by being the young athlete's mentor.
"Absolutely, that's the message I've received," Sanchez told ESPN after he was asked about Lynch. "I'm thrilled with this opportunity."
Sanchez joined the Broncos earlier this year shortly after the team lost its quarterbacks, Peyton Manning and Brock Osweiler. But, even with Sanchez onboard, Denver still kept its options open by discussing a possible deal with the San Francisco 49ers for a trade with Colin Kaepernick. The team was also planning on arranging a visit for veteran QB Brian Hoyer.
Because of these, it was rumored that the Broncos was looking for another quarterback to serve as the team's starter, making Sanchez the backup. But, as the 2016 NFL Draft rolled in, the Broncos took the opportunity to pick Lynch.
Although it was initially believed that Lynch will be the team's starting QB, Sanchez believes it would be the other way around.
"Whether it was a veteran who came in, any of those things that were out there, any of these guys in the draft that were going to the pros this year, my focus wouldn't change," he said. "Why become a slave to your emotions like that? It's not worth it, you're just spinning your wheels for nothing."
Sanchez also noted that he intends to use his experience as a professional NFL player to help out Lynch especially during his first year in the league.
"If you're confident in your ability, you've got no problem helping a guy," he said. "If you see something, whether it's on the field, off the field, you can just help him out as much as you can."
Aside from Lynch, the other athletes acquired by the Broncos during the draft include Adam Gotsis, Justin Simmons, Devontae Booker and Connor McGovern.
