Tim Tebow could bring out the best in Mark Sanchez, Curtis Martin says - The Star-Ledger - NJ.com

Tony Kurdzuk/The Star-LedgerCurtis Martin, who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame next month, thinks Mark Sanchez can be the Jets' franchise quarterback for many years.

Curtis Martin recalls 2004, when he won the NFL rushing title at age 31. The former Jets running back, who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame next month, believes a push from back-up LaMont Jordan helped.

He can see the same happening with Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow

"I don’t know that my career would have been as good as it was without LaMont Jordan right on my heels all the time," Martin explained during a luncheon with reporters. "I don't know if I win the rushing title in my 10th year (without him). I think this can be a good thing for Mark, this could be that thing that pushes him to another level."

Of course, Martin played in New York, and he understands the pitfalls. Sanchez is the designated starter, but waiting in the wings is the guy who led the Broncos to the playoffs last year as a starting quarterback.

"There's no way around it," Martin said. "It’s just like the big elephant in the room. It’s just the reality, and the best man is going to win."

Martin knows if Sanchez struggles, Tebow could get a chance and make the most of it. He knows the crowd may call for him at times. But he also affirmed his confidence in Sanchez, who is entering his fourth year and helped the team to back-to-back AFC Championship Games in his first two seasons.

"I think Mark is really talented, and I think he has the ability to be the starting quarterback for a long time here at the New York Jets," Martin said. "And I think he’s a guy who hasn’t even tapped into what he's really capable of. For his sake, and for the team's sake, I hope that it happens this year -- moreso than what it has happened. I think he's already done well, but I think there's a lot more in him."

Martin understands that a good back-up could save a team's season. And he does not believe that the two quarterbacks will divide the locker room, joking that it's not like rival gangs or Team Edward vs. Team Jacob in the popular "Twilight" series.

"The players are going to support whoever the coaches decide is the man to get the job done," he said. "Right now, Mark can get the job done."