Jets' Sanchez saddened by death of young fan

By Dennis Waszak Jr.

Associated Press

Published: Thursday, Jan. 6 2011 1:14 p.m. MST

New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez (6) listens to a question at his locker after practice Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2011, in Florham Park, N.J.

Mel Evans, Associated Press

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Summary

Mark Sanchez is leading the New York Jets into the postseason with a heavy heart.

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Mark Sanchez is leading the New York Jets into the postseason with a heavy heart.

The quarterback learned last week that an 11-year-old fan from Floral Park, N.Y., whom he had befriended, died from a rare form of cancer. Sanchez choked up with emotion as he talked about Aiden Binkley during an interview earlier this week with 1050 ESPN Radio, calling him, "My man, Aiden."

Binkley was a big Jets fan, and hoped to meet his favorite player, Sanchez, and the rest of the team. The Jets granted his wish last month, giving an excited Binkley a tour of the facility.

Binkley passed away last Thursday, and the Jets held a moment of silence for the young fan before its regular-season finale against Buffalo.

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