FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — New York Jets rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez says he has been fined $5,000 by the NFL for his low block on New Orleans linebacker Jonathan Vilma last weekend.

During Darren Sharper’s 99-yard interception return for a touchdown Sunday, Sanchez dived at the legs of Vilma, who was blocking on the play. Sanchez was assessed a 15-yard personal foul penalty for the hit.
Vilma took exception to the block, saying after the game the league should fine Sanchez.
Sanchez said Wednesday that he called Vilma on Tuesday and apologized.
“I said, ’Hey, dude, I don’t know what I was doing,” Sanchez said. He said the former Jets linebacker told him, “No problem at all. I understand.”