This is the first in a nine-part series examining the Jets' needs position by position before NFL free agency begins.

Today, I begin with the quarterbacks.

QUARTERBACKS

Currently on roster:

Mark Sanchez

Age: 25

2011 stats: 308-of-543, 3,474 yards, 26 TD, 18 INT, 6 rushing TDs, 8 fumbles

Mark Brunell

Age: 41

2011 stats: 1-of-3, 27 yards, 0 TD, O INT

Greg McElroy

Age: 23

2011 stats: N/A

Kevin O’Connell

Age: 26

2011 stats: N/A

2012 free agents: Brunell, O’Connell

Overview: The most talked-about position on the team – quarterback. Sanchez did not show the progression the Jets hoped in 2011. He looked like he took a step backward at the end of the season. That, plus sniping from teammates, has led to speculation the Jets might want to replace Sanchez.

The biggest name being talked about is Peyton Manning, who is expected to be cut by the Colts and become a free agent. The Jets have been mentioned as a possible destination for Manning and Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum and head coach Rex Ryan have done nothing to quiet that talk.

If Sanchez does remain as the starter, the Jets are likely to bring in a backup that can push Sanchez. Brunell has served as a mentor to Sanchez for two years but has never been a threat to take his starting job.

Offseason priority rating (1 to 5 with 5 being the highest priority): 3

Possible targets: Manning, Chad Henne, David Garrard, Vince Young

Costello’s call: I think the Jets explore the idea of Manning but don’t get very far because of his health and cost. I think they end up with Garrard backing up Sanchez. Garrard, 34, did not play in 2011 and is coming off an injury. If he checks out physically, he should be a cheap addition and give the Jets a veteran who has won in the NFL to push Sanchez a bit and provide a trustworthy backup if Sanchez falters or gets injured.

COMING TOMORROW: Running backs