Chiefs fans looking to raise their blood pressure should check out today’s article in the Kansas City Star regarding Matt Cassel’s contract.
We knew the figures for Cassel’s total deal, but the some of the front-loaded numbers are eye-opening. Cassel’s $11.75 million base salary in 2010 ranks third among NFL quarterbacks.
Chiefs brass uniformly says they fully believe in Cassel, and they know better than anyone how awful the team’s offensive line and receivers played last season.
With that said, Cassel is getting paid like a top-five quarterback. We wonder if he has to start producing like one to stay in Kansas City past next season.
Cassel is due a raise to $12.25 million in 2011, including a $7.5 million option bonus. That kind of option is a checkpoint in the contract -- a time to get out. If we had to bet on it today, we’d guess Cassel stays in Kansas City in 2011 and beyond.
But the guy has to show some progress on the field. Another rough season, and the best option for the Chiefs will be to move on.