The New York Jets decided to put an end to the Mark Sanchez era by signing veteran quarterback Michael Vick with hopes that he will be able to compete with Geno Smith for the starting job.

Sanchez was released from the team after spending nearly a half a decade with the Jets.

"I'd like to thank Mark for everything he's done for this team and me personally," head coach Rex Ryan said of Sanchez. "We were rookies together and had some early success, becoming the first rookie head coach and quarterback to go to back-to-back championship games. We experienced a lot together and I really appreciate Mark. He's a great player, a great teammate, and I wish him nothing but the best."

Meanwhile, the 33-year-old Vick said he is already prepared to get on the field.

"Physically I'm 100 percent," Vick said, according to the team's official website. "My role is going to be to get in and win football games whenever my number's called, and be the best I can be and help all the quarterbacks become the best they can be."

Vick will have some familiar faces in his new locker room. Jets offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg was Vick's coach in Philadelphia during his years with the Eagles.

"He has the respect of both his teammates and opponents," Mornhinweg said. "He's here in a role where he's going to compete and push Geno Smith to become the very best that he can be. Michael will be able to go in and play at a high level and a winning level if called upon."

What do you think about the move? Do you think the Jets will face a great deal of criticism for signing Vick, considering his past? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.