Dear Matt,

Matt Cassel is playing for more than pride today, he could be playing for his job

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Let me start by apologizing. I can't even begin to imagine how difficult this season is going to be for you. After just two weeks, your team has lost their two best players to injury... not to mention your favorite security blanket, Tony Moeaki. There's a much bigger problem at play here, though.

As an NFL Quarterback, you're expected to be a team leader. There have been a few instances since you arrived in Kansas City when I thought, "Damn... he might be the guy." Problem is, the one that comes to mind was only put in perspective because you lost your appendix. Sorry about that, by the way. My point was that playing Quarterback comes with a great amount of responsibility; responsibility that frankly, to this point in your career, you haven't lived-up to.

I have to say: when I first saw your K-Swiss campaign with Danny McBride, I couldn't help but think maybe this was going to be the year you came into your own. After all, you were coming off a fantastic season not only for the Chiefs but for you individually. I was telling people how you were finding a swagger and how smooth you looked in training camp, despite the limited offseason. Optimism was everywhere, especially with two brand new weapons for the passing game!

Then things started to spiral out of control... first, Jon Baldwin hurt himself in a fight with Thomas Jones. Then, Tony Moeaki shredded his ACL. Before the season had even begun, you were back to where you started: lacking playmakers.

Now, one can't help but think that Kenny Powers is eventually going to break the news that "You're f*#%ing out."

We both know you have some physical limitations; that's ok, man. You've always been praised for your work ethic so I'm sure we can find ways to help you to be successful. But damnit, Matt - it’s time to hold-up your end of the bargain.

With the losses of Eric and Jamaal, this is clearly your football team now. Honestly, it should have been before they went down. Think about all the times you got to watch Tom put the Patriots on his back and will them to victory. You know what it takes.

So, what's the problem? Sometimes it looks like you don't even want to be out there. You're having trouble going through your progressions. Most of the time, you lock onto a receiver and wait until he gets open rather than scanning the entire field. Your confidence in passes of more than 10-15 yards is shaky at best. Is there something wrong? Do you miss Charlie? Are you feeling rushed since we can't seem to get to the line very quickly? Is Todd just an asshole to you? Seriously, man... what's up?

Everyone in Kansas City wants you to succeed. We're behind you, but our patience is getting pretty thin. You have to show us something against San Diego today. Please, for your own sake: take control of this team. Expecting you to beat the Chargers seems pretty ridiculous, so let's just start with making a few plays. You have to know by now that if you don't start to turn the corner, your time is going to run out. Don't relax out there because Scott has had your back. Sooner or later, even he's going to give-up on you.

Can I give you a few pointers?

Why don't you start by showing some emotion? If a guy doesn't know his assignment (I’m looking at you, Steve Breaston), you need to call him out. Embarrass him if you have to. Holding your teammates accountable is something every Quarterback has to do. You know what? You need to do the same thing with your coaches. Every time you have to rush the team to the line because they aren't getting the plays in, just call timeout. Go to the sideline and rip Todd a new one. The first two games against Buffalo and Detroit were hard for everyone, I'm sure. You have to be frustrated. Well, you know what? Maybe it would help if you let some of it on the people responsible.

Being a leader isn't just about shouldering the blame for losses and passing out praise after wins. It’s about making sure that every single person on the team is doing their job... teammates and coaches alike.

Now, if you don't think you're up to it, I understand. Some guys just don't have what it takes. All I'm asking is that you do a little soul searching before the game today. Figure out if this football thing is really for you. It’s really ok if you decide you can't live-up to the expectations of being an NFL Quarterback; most people on the planet can't do it either... like... literally... almost all 7 billion people. It’s nothing to be ashamed of.

The rest of this season presents you with a chance to prove a lot of people wrong. I suggest you seize the opportunity.

Sincerely,

Ryan

twitter.com/ryanscotthall

ryan.scott.hall@gmail.com