Mark Sanchez on Loving Broadway

Many were surprised at the appearance of NY Jets Mark Sanchez at the Tony Awards Sunday night - and even more surprised that he served as a presenter, introducing Memphis' Tony performance.  For the quarterback, however, it felt completely natural, as he is a big fan of Broadway productions,  gets regular invites backstage to the shows he attends, and even fancies Broadway favorites such as Idina Menzel as buddies.

ESPN New York reveals that Sanchez's interest in Broadway stems from the influence of one of his professors as USC, Dr. Susan Evans.  At her encouragement to see live theater, Sanchez frequented productions on the West Coast and has taken in productions of In the Heights, Fences, Wicked, Rock of Ages, Jersey Boys and Fela! more recently.  And, of course, there is Memphis, which he has seen 3 times (once with Jets tight end Dustin Keller).

Says Sanchez of Evan's influence: "When I came out here she was on me about taking advantage of the city and getting to the theater."   He furthers: I really respect what they do...Eight shows a week, I mean that's tough -- unbelievable body control and coordination and then the voices on top of that, it's unbelievable."

To read the full report on ESPN New York, click here.

Sanchez is currently undergoing rehab for a knee injury and is participating in pre-season mini-camp.  He is expected to be back in full this season.