Matt Cassel is the second-string quarterback for the New England Patriots. He was the seventh-round pick by the New England Patriots and the 230th choice overall in the 2005 NFL Draft. Cassel played his college ball for the University of Southern California Trojans.

At USC, Cassel served as the backup for Carson Palmer and then for Matt Leinart, both Heisman Trophy winners. He made one start in college; it was at tight end.

In three seasons with the Pats, the quarterback has appeared in 14 games, passing for a total of 253 yards and completing 22 of 39 passes (56.4-percent). He's thrown two touchdowns and two interceptions, earning a rating of 71.8. He's rushed for one score and fumbled twice.

The six-foot-four, 230-pound Cassel has made a career as a backup. He's smart and dependable. Cassel is accurate on the short and medium range pass. A better than average athlete, he has a fine touch and good timing. His intangibles are very fine and he knows how to utilize time in the pocket. Cassel is a talented QB who needs experience to get a chance as a starter.