FLORHAM PARK, N.J (AP) - The New York Jets have signed quarterback David Garrard to back up - and provide a challenge to - starter Mark Sanchez.

Garrard has not played in the NFL since 2010.

Garrard started 76 games in nine seasons with Jacksonville. He played in the 2009 Pro Bowl.

The Jets have been seeking a veteran to play behind Sanchez, who comes off the worst season of his four-year NFL career. They soured on Tim Tebow last season and Tebow barely played.

Earlier Monday, new offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg said Sanchez ``will probably have just a little bit of a leg up'' in the team's quarterback competition.

Garrard is the first major roster addition made by the Jets' new general manager, John Idzik.