Former New York Jets quarterback Mark Sánchez — once one of the NFL’s most recognizable figures — is back in the headlines for reasons far from football. The ex-player was released from the hospital on Sunday, only to be taken immediately to Marion County Jail in Indiana (USA), where he was booked on charges of aggravated assault and several misdemeanors before being released under investigation.

What happened to Mark Sánchez in Indianapolis?

The incident dates back to October 5, when the former quarterback — allegedly under the influence of alcohol — was involved in a violent dispute over a parking spot outside a bar in Indianapolis.

According to the police report, Sánchez assaulted a 69-year-old driver identified as Perry Tole, who tried to defend himself with pepper spray. When that failed to stop the ex-player, Tole drew a knife and stabbed Sánchez multiple times, causing injuries that required hospitalization.

“Right now, I’m focused on my recovery. I just want to thank the first responders, the hospital staff, and Dr. Lindsey Mossler — she saved my life. I’m sorry I can’t answer all your questions,” Sánchez said after being released from custody.

What charges is the former Jets quarterback facing?

After receiving medical treatment, Sánchez was arrested on charges of aggravated assault and multiple misdemeanors, which could carry a sentence of one to six years in prison if convicted.

Additionally, Perry Tole has filed a civil lawsuit against Sánchez, citing “severe permanent disfigurement, loss of function, emotional distress, and other damages.”

The 38-year-old former athlete was released after his booking but must appear at a hearing scheduled for November 5, ahead of the trial that will determine his legal outcome.

What happened to Mark Sánchez after retiring from football?

A first-round pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, Sánchez played 10 seasons in the league, representing the New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, and Washington. He retired at the end of the 2018 season.

After hanging up his cleats, he began his career as an analyst for ABC in 2019, later joining ESPN in 2020 before moving to Fox Sports in 2021, where he currently works as a commentator.

The shocking case has sent ripples through both the sports and media worlds, casting doubt on the professional future of one of the NFL’s most media-savvy figures of the past decade.