Cassel is coming up from behind at QB

Blessed by learning from two of the best college quarterbacks in a decade but cursed by having to compete against them, Cassel never started a game in college. But the talent remained, and it was evident as he strutted for NFL teams leading up to this spring's NFL Draft. The Patriots took notice, and nabbed Cassel in the seventh round, with the 230th choice.

Cassel has been one of the brightest surprises at Patriots training camp, quickly taking command of the offense and showcasing arm strength and accuracy to spare. If any observers who'd never heard of the NFL strolled onto the field when training camp commenced and watched the Patriots practice for two weeks, they surely would come away with the idea that Cassel would be the man backing up Tom Brady.

''I've always known I had the physical capabilities," said Cassel, surrounded by more minicams than he'd seen in years. ''I played behind two Heisman winners, and I was right there, biting on their toes. Who knows what would have happened if I had got the opportunity to play?"

It's a question that ate at Cassel as he remained on the sidelines for four seasons. He redshirted his freshman year, then many figured he'd beat out Palmer, who'd struggled during his sophomore season while returning from an injury, in 2001. But Palmer kept his job, then went on to win the 2002 Heisman Trophy and become the first pick in the 2003 NFL Draft.

Trying to utilize Cassel's considerable athletic ability, USC (and former Patriots) coach Pete Carroll moved Cassel to H-back, where he started one game, and receiver.

He moved back to quarterback as a sophomore to back up Palmer and prepare to assume the starter's role as a junior. Enter Leinart, who beat out Cassel, then played some of the best college football in a decade for two years. Cassel toyed with playing tight end, but eventually settled into his backup role.

''It was difficult from a competitive standpoint," Cassel said. ''I'm competitive. When you get in that situation and you're eager to get out there, sometimes it takes its toll mentally."