Former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez was stabbed early Saturday morning in downtown Indianapolis and is currently hospitalized in stable condition.
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, following protocol by not naming Sanchez, said Saturday afternoon that detectives are investigating a physical altercation that occurred around 12:30 a.m. near Senate Avenue and West Washington Street.
They have reviewed video footage that reportedly captured two adult men, who are not local residents, injured in what they believe was a non-random altercation. One man sustained lacerations, and the other, presumably Sanchez, was stabbed.
Both men received medical treatment, with the stabbing victim hospitalized in stable condition.
“It is the practice of the IMPD Public Affairs Office to not identify victims or suspects in incidents, unless the suspect is arrested, charged, or being sought,” the statement read.
This case will be presented to the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office for a charging decision.
Fox Sports previously confirmed TMZ’s initial report that Sanchez was involved in the incident.
“Mark Sanchez was injured in Indianapolis on Saturday and is currently recovering in the hospital in stable condition,” Fox Sports said in a social media statement. “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.”
Sanchez was in Indianapolis for his role as a broadcaster with Fox Sports, where he was scheduled to call Sunday’s Colts vs. Raiders game at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Before transitioning to a broadcasting career, Sanchez played 10 seasons in the NFL, most notably with the New York Jets, after being drafted fifth overall in the 2009 NFL Draft.
He also hosts the NFL on Fox podcast, Rearview, talking to NFL guests like Josh Allen, Jared Goff, and Baker Mayfield from his car.
Sanchez married Shameless actress Perry Mattfeld in Mexico on May 28, 2023. They have a son, Daniel, from before their marriage, and welcomed twins in March.
Meanwhile, fans and fellow athletes continue to share messages of support and well-wishes for Sanchez online.
“Sending our thoughts and love to Mark Sanchez and his family. Hoping for a speedy recovery, 6,” the official X account for the Jets responded to Fox Sports’ statement.
Eric Adams, Head of News Strategy for the Jets, added, “Mark Sanchez is a good person, somebody you want as a teammate in life or on the field. He is also a husband and a proud father. This is shocking and sad news, but stable is a good sign.”
“[Prayer emoji] for our friend and love to his family. Mark’s positivity is his enduring trademark,” Adams said.
“D–n man… Prayers up for my guy and USC brother Mark Sanchez. This is ridiculous!” former Jets wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson posted on X.
“Prayers to my former teammate. Just crazy,” former NFL offensive guard Damien Woody said.