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FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) - Mark Sanchez wanted no contract squabbles or training camp headaches.
The New York Jets' rookie quarterback got his big deal and a huge sense of relief before minicamp was even completed, signing a five-year deal Wednesday that could be worth up to $60 million, including $28 million guaranteed.
"It sends the right message," Sanchez said. "It's not in my makeup to hold out like that. That would've just been terrible for me. This just eliminates that whole factor. I'll be there Day 1, ready to go and compete. It's going to be a good time and a competitive time."
Agent David Dunn said the deal is worth "around the $50 million mark," but could reach as high as $60 million with incentives. That would make it the richest rookie deal ever given out by the Jets.
"This is just the beginning," Sanchez said. "I'll be working every day to justify this contract."
Detroit gave quarterback Matthew Stafford, the No. 1 overall pick and the only other first-rounder to sign, a six-year contract worth up to $78 million, with $41.7 million in guarantees. While Sanchez's deal falls short of that, Dunn said doing the contract for five years instead of the usual six for top picks satisfied both sides.
"I think from the Jets' standpoint, there's probably a little bit less money at risk," Dunn said. "And from our standpoint, I think $28 million in guaranteed money will tide him over fine for a while. And, obviously, he reaches free agency a year sooner."
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/9598902/Jets,-Sanchez-agree-to-five-year-deal-