Mark Sanchez is out at Fox Sports.
According to CNN, the network confirmed on Friday, November 7, that the former NFL quarterback will no longer appear on its broadcasts, marking the end of a three-year run as an analyst.
A spokesperson said in a short statement, “We can confirm that Mark Sanchez is no longer with the network. There will be no further comment at this time.” No reason was given, but the move comes weeks after Sanchez became involved in a violent altercation in Indianapolis.
Sanchez had been off the air since October 4, when police say he got into a confrontation with a 69-year-old truck driver, Perry Tole, outside a downtown hotel. The incident happened while Sanchez was in the city to work Fox’s broadcast of the October 5 matchup between the Colts and Raiders.
According to court filings, a dispute over parking escalated into a physical fight. Prosecutors allege that Sanchez, who appeared to be under the influence, entered Tole’s vehicle without permission and pushed him. Tole responded by pepper-spraying Sanchez. When Sanchez continued toward him, authorities say Tole pulled a knife.
Sanchez was hospitalized with stab wounds to his upper right torso. Tole also sustained injuries and has since filed a civil lawsuit against both Sanchez and Fox Sports.
In addition to the civil suit, Sanchez is facing a felony battery charge and several misdemeanors related to the altercation. His trial is scheduled to begin on December 11.
With Sanchez off the broadcast schedule, Fox Sports has moved quickly to secure a replacement. Drew Brees will step into the role, joining play-by-play announcer Adam Amin and sideline reporter Kristina Pink as part of the network’s No. 4 NFL crew. Brees is set to make his debut on November 16.
Brees brings a long list of credentials with him. He retired in 2020 after 20 seasons with the Chargers and New Orleans Saints, where he led the franchise to its first Super Bowl title. He later spent a single season with NBC as both a studio and game analyst.
In a statement announcing the move, Brees said he is looking forward to returning to NFL coverage. “I hope my passion for this game is reflected in the knowledge and insights I provide to the fans each Sunday,” he said.