AP

Citing an unnamed source, the New York Post reported Tuesday evening that the New York Jets will “definitely” consider signing quarterback Peyton Manning after he’s released by the Colts.

According to the report, the Jets are “wrestling” with the idea of “shaking up their franchise.” It was just three offseasons ago that the Jets traded up to draft supposed franchise quarterback Mark Sanchez. Signing or even aggressively entertaining the idea of acquiring Manning would send the message that the Sanchez move was a mistake.

They’d also have to cut ties with Sanchez.

Sanchez is owed an $8.5 million base salary and $2.75 million roster bonus on March 27. The $11.25 million in combined 2012 payments is much too rich for a backup quarterback. There is no realistic scenario in which the Jets could keep Sanchez on the roster if Manning was acquired.

So he would have to be traded or waived.