Mark Sanchez 'apathetic' to QB competition

Mark Sanchez says he’s no stranger to competition.

So while the arrival of Geno Smith has generated serious buzz since the April draft, Sanchez remains resolute that he’ll reclaim his starting job in training camp.

“I think Geno’s doing a great job,” the incumbent QB said of his competition. “I think he’s working hard, he’s studying and really doing his best.

“I just feel comfortable. I feel like this is the kind of coordinator and system that puts you in a good spot. I think Marty’s real intent is to get us to really understand what he’s talking about, exactly what he wants us to do…and then go make it happen. …I think I’m having one of my best offseasons.”

While Sanchez struggled in Tony Sparano’s stagnant ground-and-pound offense last season (committing 26 turnovers for a second straight year), the QB is a big believer in Mornhinweg’s West Coast system -- and himself.

“I’ve competed my whole life, whether it was in high school or college, beating out other quarterbacks. My first year here with Kellen (Clemens). That’s all I’ve known, so it’s nothing new. It’s nothing big or scary. I’m just being myself and doing my very best and that’ll be good enough,” he said.

When reminded that he only had to compete ‘briefly’ with Clemens, Sanchez said flatly: “OK. So this will be briefly.’

“It doesn’t bother me,” he added, when asked about being challenged by Smith, a high-profile newcomer. “I’m apathetic to it.”

Neither Sanchez nor Smith seem to know who’s leading the way in the QB competition. But Sanchez has no doubt he and the rest of the offense are “right where we’re supposed to be.”

“…I think I’m making good decisions out there, I think I’m taking care of the ball well, I think my accuracy is where it needs to be,” he said. “You just keep fighting and keep working and trying to improve every day, and that’ll be good enough.”

The QB also said he’ll host his annual Jets West Camp in California – but as of now, he’s unsure if Smith will be in attendance.