Veteran quarterback Mark Brunell won his first career Super Bowl as a backup in 2009. He now has joined a team that many believe will walk away with the title in 2010.
Jason LaCanfora of NFL Network reports that the Jets, as expected, have signed Brunell. Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that it’s a two-year deal.
The 17-year veteran last served as a full-time starter in 2005, with the Redskins. He spent nine seasons with the Jaguars, eventually losing the starting job to Byron Leftwich.
Under the rules of the Final Eight Plan, the Jets weren’t able to add another unrestricted free agent until July 24, the first day of the first training camp of the year.
In New York, Brunell provides veteran depth behind starting quarterback Mark Sanchez. Also in the mix is Kellen Clemens, one-time quarterback of the future who to date has not fulfilled his potential.
Brunell wore No. 11 last season in New Orleans, coincidentally the same chapter of the U.S. bankruptcy laws under which he recently sought protection in the face of more than $20 million in debt.