Jets teammates defend Sanchez amid criticism

The fallout from the New York Jets failing to make the NFL playoffs is in full swing, with members of coach Rex Ryan's staff leaving, players taking shots at quarterback Mark Sanchez and other players defending him.

In less than 24 hours, the coaching staff was shaken up with offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer walking away, former Dolphins coach Tony Sparano replacing him, and a few assistants saying they won't be back.

Now the latest controversy involves the shaky status of Sanchez.

Some of his teammates say he lacks the work ethic and leadership skills to lead the Jets to the Super Bowl. And with a new offensive coordinator in charge, the window for Sanchez to do so might have gotten a lot smaller.

"Mark is heading in the right direction," left guard Matt Slauson said. "He is going to be a great quarterback, and I really believe he can lead us to a championship. His rookie year, we went to the AFC championship and again last year. The guy can do it. He can get it done. The rest of the team has to do their part, too."

The Daily News quoted one player, who was not identified, as saying Sanchez was "lazy and content." Another player suggested the Jets should do all they can to try to bring in Colts quarterback Peyton Manning, if he's healthy, because Sanchez isn't improving.

"You can't blame a season on one guy," defensive lineman Marcus Dixon said. "I mean, come on. It's all unfair. We have Mark Sanchez. He's our quarterback. He's our guy. And that's how just about everyone in that locker room feels."

Colts

Indianapolis hired Eagles executive Ryan Grigson as its new general manager.

The 39-year-old Grigson has spent the past nine years with Philadelphia, where he was named director of player personnel in 2010 after four years as college scouting director.

Packers

Offensive coordinator Joe Philbin will be away from the team indefinitely as he and his family deal with the loss of his son Michael.

Coach Mike McCarthy said he and the rest of his offensive assistant coaches are dividing up Philbin's responsibilities.

Rams

A person familiar with the situation said St. Louis received permission to interview Carolina offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski for its head-coaching position. The Rams also have interviewed Jeff Fisher and Cardinals defensive coordinator Ray Horton.