Chiefs drop Cassel as starting quarterback, promote Quinn

Kansas City, KS, United States (4E Sports) – After a 1-5 start, Kansas City Chiefs coach Romeo Crennel has decided to replace starting quarterback Matt Cassel with reserve Brady Quinn.

“I kind of felt that probably the most impactful move that I could make to get everybody’s attention was to change the quarterback, so I’m changing the quarterback and Quinn will be the starter and Cassel will be a backup,” Crennel said.

“I am not saying that Cassel is the reason we are where we are because that brush, that stroke of that brush, is a broad stroke and everybody is included in it, trying to make this better and trying to get this better,” he added.

Crennel’s decision would end Cassel’s four-year stint with the Chiefs. He was acquired by general manager Scott Pioli from the New England Patriots after he showed flashes of brilliance as replacement for Tom Brady in 2009.

Piolo then signed Cassel’s to a six-year, $63 million deal to become the franchise’s No. 1 quarterback.

In 2010, Cassel fulfilled that promise, bringing the Chiefs a division title and made the Pro Bowl after throwing for 3,116 yards and 27 touchdowns.

A hand injury limited Cassel to just nine games in 2011, throwing for just 1,713 yards and 10 touchdowns. This season, Cassel has five touchdown passes and nine interceptions.

“I’m frustrated, but at the same time, I’m a team captain on this team. I care about this team, and again, as we move forward, I’m a big boy. I’m not going to hang my head. I’m going to do what I’ve always done and work hard, tremendously hard,” Cassel said.

Despite his disappointment, Cassel said he’s ready to support Quinn in his new role as team leader.

“I’m excited about the opportunity. I think, especially after coming off last week, we have a lot to do. I’m excited about the opportunity of getting to play. Oakland is a great team. There is a lot of work ahead of us,” Quinn said.

In 16 career games with the Cleveland Browns and Chiefs, Quinn has thrown 2,114 yards and nine touchdowns with 10 interceptions.

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