Former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez has been stabbed in downtown Indianapolis and is currently hospitalised in stable condition.

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) said detectives are investigating a physical altercation that occurred around 12:30 am on Saturday near Senate Avenue and West Washington Street. The department has not identified Sanchez or any suspects, in line with standard protocol.

“It is the practice of the IMPD Public Affairs Office to not identify victims or suspects in incidents, unless the suspect is arrested, charged, or being sought,” the department said in a statement.

The case will be presented to the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office for a decision on potential charges.

Fox Sports, where Sanchez was scheduled to broadcast Sunday’s Colts vs Raiders game at Lucas Oil Stadium, confirmed the incident.

“Mark Sanchez was injured in Indianapolis on Saturday and is currently recovering in the hospital in stable condition,” the network said in a social media statement. “We are deeply grateful to the medical team for their exceptional care and support. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mark, and we ask that everyone please respect his and his family’s privacy during this time.”

Sanchez, 38, was in Indianapolis for his role as a Fox Sports broadcaster. He played 10 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the New York Jets, who drafted him fifth overall in 2009. He also hosts the NFL on Fox podcast, Rearview, which features interviews with NFL players including Josh Allen, Jared Goff, and Baker Mayfield.

Sanchez married actress Perry Mattfeld in May 2023. The couple has three children, including a son from a previous relationship and twins born earlier this year.

Messages of support for Sanchez have poured in online. The New York Jets said on social media: “Sending our thoughts and love to Mark Sanchez and his family. Hoping for a speedy recovery.” Eric Adams, Head of News Strategy for the Jets, added: “Mark Sanchez is a good person, somebody you want as a teammate in life or on the field. He is also a husband and a proud father. This is shocking and sad news, but stable is a good sign.”

Former teammates also expressed concern. Keyshawn Johnson wrote on X: “D–n man… Prayers up for my guy and USC brother Mark Sanchez. This is ridiculous!” Former NFL offensive guard Damien Woody said: “Prayers to my former teammate. Just crazy.”

No arrests have been made, and police have not released information about the suspect. Investigators continue to review evidence, including video footage, to determine the circumstances that led to the stabbing.