One week after signing a one-year, $1.25 million contract on March 16, Stanton was traded to the Colts for a sixth round pick. Stanton was brought in to replace 41-year-old Mark Brunell as the backup to starter Mark Sanchez.
Much to his chagrin, he was demoted to third string when the Jets made a controversial move by trading for the polarizing Tim Tebow. Stanton then reportedly desired to be traded or released from the team. He will now get an opportunity to back up presumed No. 1 overall pick Andrew Luck.
The unique dynamic between Tebow and Sanchez, who is polarizing in his own right, was probably not an environment Stanton wanted to be a part of. Since the trade for Tebow was announced, the national media has been speculating how the players will coexist. Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum has been adamant that Sanchez is the starter and the Tebow is a situational player, but the media pressure in the Big Apple may be a factor as the season goes on.
Many New York fans and media have grown weary of Sanchez's inconsistency as a passer. The crowd at MetLife stadium isn't afraid to show its displeasure, and the 2011 boos could turn into "Tebow" chants in 2012.
In an abnormal display for a backup quarterback, the Jets will formally introduce Tebow on Monday. Technicalities prevent the trade to be officially completed until Saturday.
Second-year quarterback Greg McElroy is still on the roster as well.
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