ESPN News Services
Nov 7, 2025, 12:25 PM ET
Mark Sanchez will not return as a Fox Sports analyst as the former NFL quarterback faces trial stemming from his alleged attack on a truck driver last month.
To replace Sanchez, Fox has hired Super Bowl-winning quarterback Drew Brees.
"We can confirm that Mark Sanchez is no longer with the network. There will be no further comment at this time," a Fox Sports spokesperson said Friday.
Sanchez had been off the air since the Oct. 4 incident at the Westin Hotel in downtown Indianapolis. He was in town for the weekend's game between the Colts and Raiders when he confronted the truck driver before allegedly attacking and injuring him.
Sanchez was stabbed in the chest in the incident and spent a week in a hospital. The trucker, who claims self-defense and has not been charged, is suing him and Fox Sports for unspecified damages.
Mark Sanchez's brother Nick Sanchez Jr. addressed Fox's decision in a statement sent on behalf of the Sanchez family.
"While the recent news -- and its timing -- is understandably disappointing, our priority remains his continued healing and recovery," Nick Sanchez Jr. said. "Mark deeply values his time at FOX and the exceptional colleagues he's had the privilege to work with. Those relationships are meaningful and will endure."
Fox Sports announced Friday that Brees would replace Sanchez on Fox's No. 4 crew with play-by-play announcer Adam Amin and sideline reporter Kristina Pink starting in Week 11 on Nov. 16.
"I appreciate the opportunity FOX has given me in the booth and with their team," Brees said in a statement. "I hope my passion for this game is reflected in the knowledge and insights I provide to the fans each Sunday."
Sanchez's trial is set to begin Dec. 11, though prosecutors expressed doubt following an Oct. 22 hearing that it was a realistic date. Prosecutors have charged Sanchez with a felony count of battery involving serious bodily injury, along with three misdemeanor charges, including public intoxication.
Sanchez, who remains free on bond, declined to address the allegations after he was booked Oct. 12, saying he was focused on his recovery.
Brees retired from the NFL following the 2020 season after a 20-year career with the San Diego Chargers and New Orleans Saints. In his first year of eligibility, Brees is among the list of 52 modern-era players being considered for the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class.
He made a studio appearance during "Fox NFL Sunday" earlier this season and is slated to be an analyst for one of Netflix's two Christmas Day games.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
