Washington was reportedly interested in a pu pu platter of National Football League burnouts to take its open quarterback spot, including EJ Manuel, T.J. Yates and Sanchez.
Redskins head coach Jay Gruden said that familiarity was part of the team's decision to go with Sanchez.
Sanchez has worked with several Redskins assistant coaches while with the New York Jets.
Sanchez, who was suspended four games this season for violating the performance-enhancing drug policy, was last seen backing up in Chicago last season, and before that had stints with the Cowboys, Broncos and Eagles, all after four seasons with the Jets.
More lake effect snow coming this week
The forecast high is colder than the normal low temperature of 35 degrees for this time of year, according to the Weather Service. Behind this front on Tuesday , more lake effect snow is likely with the best chance of significant accumulation west of US-131.
Sanchez, the fifth overall pick in the 2009 draft, offers the Redskins veteran experience. Yes, Smith has had a down season compared his career-year with the Chiefs but the Redskins are still in first place. He has started 72 regular-season games and six more in the postseason. He was the top quarterback there for four years, starting 62 games, throwing for 68 touchdowns and 69 interceptions.
Sanchez and Clemens know offensive coordinator Matt Cavanaugh from their time with the New York Jets.
The Sanchez signing will come at nearly the exact six-year anniversary of the Butt Fumble Game, which took place on the night of Thanksgiving in 2012.
While there are similarities between Smith's injury and the infamous Joe Theismann injury when he was sacked by Lawrence Taylor in 1985, there are some differences. He posted a passer rating of 71.7.
