Matt Cassel: Career Overview
Full Name: Matthew Richard Cassel
Date of Birth: May 17, 1982
College: University of Southern California (USC)
Position: Quarterback (QB)
Career Timeline
- New England Patriots (2005-2008)
- Drafted in the 7th round of the 2005 NFL Draft.
- Served as a backup to Tom Brady, contributing to the team's Super Bowl XLII appearance.
- In 2008, stepped in as a starter following Brady's season-ending injury, throwing for 3,693 yards and 21 touchdowns.
- Kansas City Chiefs (2009-2012)
- Traded to the Chiefs in 2009, where he became the starting quarterback.
- In 2010, earned Pro Bowl honors after leading the league in passer rating (93.0) and throwing for 3,116 yards and 27 touchdowns.
- Led the Chiefs to the playoffs in 2010.
- Minnesota Vikings (2013)
- Signed as a free agent and served as the starting quarterback for the season.
- Played in 16 games, passing for 1,807 yards and 11 touchdowns.
- Buffalo Bills (2014)
- Joined the Bills but did not make a significant impact, primarily serving as a backup.
- Dallas Cowboys (2015)
- Signed mid-season as a backup quarterback.
- Played in 4 games, starting 3, and throwing for 1,000 yards with 5 touchdowns.
- Tennessee Titans (2016)
- Signed as a backup but did not play in any regular-season games.
- Detroit Lions (2017-2018)
- Joined the Lions as a backup quarterback.
- Played in 2 games in 2018, marking the final season of his career.
Highlights and Accomplishments
- Pro Bowl selection in 2010.
- Led the NFL in passer rating in 2010.
- Career passing stats include over 16,000 yards, 100 touchdown passes, and a passer rating of approximately 82.1.
- Known for his adaptability and experience, playing in various offensive schemes throughout his career.
Legacy
Matt Cassel is remembered as a quarterback who overcame the odds after being a backup for many years before finding success as a starter. His career spans over a decade, and he is particularly noted for his time with the Chiefs, where he made a significant impact and earned Pro Bowl honors.