Former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez was reportedly hospitalized on Saturday with “critical injuries” after a scary incident that saw the FOX Sports analyst stabbed ahead of the network’s broadcast of Colts-Raiders in Indianapolis.
While details remain scarce at this time, and it’s still unclear what prompted the attack, police in downtown Indy were reportedly called around 12:30 AM to help two injured people, according to TMZ — one of whom was the ex-Jets QB.
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Sanchez, the No. 5 pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, spent four seasons quarterbacking the Jets before stints with the Eagles, Cowboys and Washington — helping lead NY to back-to-back AFC Championship appearances over his first two years.
This afternoon, FOX released a statement on the 38-year-old’s status following the concerning series of events.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 31: Mark Sanchez of Fox Sports looks on prior to the game against the Carolina Panthers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on October 31, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)Mark Brown/Getty Images
FOX issues statement on Sanchez
“Mark Sanchez was injured in Indianapolis on Saturday and is currently recovering in the hospital in stable condition,” a statement from FOX read. “We are deeply grateful to the medical team for their exceptional care and support. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mark, and we ask that everyone please respect his and his family’s privacy during this time.”
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Thankfully, the former USC star is now stabilized and should be able to walk away from this whole ordeal in OK condition with the help of medical staff.
But you can only imagine what was going through the minds of his family, friends and loved ones when they got word of the news.
Fans send thoughts Sanchez’s way
“So scary and awful,” the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said.
“An absolutely wonderful update on a horrifying situation,” FOX Sports colleague Nick Wright replied. “Thinking about Mark & his amazing family during this horrific ordeal.”
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“The USC Football community sends our support to Mark and his family,” USC Football commented.
“Stable condition is certainly good news. Hoping for the best for Mark Sanchez here,” Mike Garafolo posted.
“Sending our thoughts and love to Mark Sanchez and his family,” the Jets shared. “Hoping for a speedy recovery, 6.”
“Incredibly scary situation,” ESPN‘s Field Yates reacted. “Hoping for the best for Mark Sanchez.”
Sanchez traded in his pads for a mic in 2019 after eight seasons in the National Football League, covering college football for the Worldwide Leader before transitioning to FOX two years later.
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As the quarterback of the Trojans, Sanchez led some of the best teams in the country to enormous success in the post-Matt Leinart era. And he finished his pro career with 15,357 yards, 86 touchdowns and a 37-36 record.
We certainly hope Mark makes a full recovery and our thoughts are with all those close to him during this time.
This story was originally reported by The Spun on Oct 4, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.