New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan has confirmed that quarterback Mark Sanchez will be a part of his side if he can remain fit.

Sanchez's position on the roster was cast into doubt following the arrival of Brady Quinn yesterday, with the 26-year-old currently struggling with a shoulder injury that threatens to rule him out of the opening match of the season.

Geno Smith, who has been competing with Sanchez to become the number one quarterback, will start the season opener, but Ryan insists that Sanchez still has a future with the team.

"If Mark's healthy, then, yes, I would say he'll be part of this team," Ryan told reporters.

The full extent of Sanchez's shoulder problem has not been disclosed by the team, but he is yet to practise since suffering the injury nine days ago.