Matt Cassel became the richest backup in the NFL over the weekend. The Patriots put the franchise tag on Tom Brady’s 2008 replacement, and they guaranteed Cassel to make $14.65 million next season, possibly more.

Thing is, if Brady comes back, Cassel might only see the field for mop-up duty. The Pats can trade him away, but the receiving team will certainly have a hefty price to pay.

So congratulations, Matt, on proving you really can make a living sitting the bench.

If only I knew this before ending my basketball career in high school.

-Jerry Burnes, Sports Editor