NFL sources believe Matt Cassel headed to Vikings

Nov 18, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel (7) is pressured as he passes by Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Domata Peko (94) in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

If the Vikings learned anything from the Wild Card game against the Packers this past January, it is that the team is in need of a quality backup quarterback behind starter Christian Ponder.

Matt Cassel, who is expected to be available now that the Chiefs acquired Alex Smith from the 49ers, may be destined to head to Minnesota.

Word among NFL player agents has Cassel a potential signing for the Vikings, according to Stephen F. Holder of the Tampa Bay Times.

Kansas City is more likely to release than trade Cassel because of the $16.5 million owed over the next two seasons. Cassel, 30, is due $7.5 million in 2013 and $9 million in 2014. If the Vikings do trade for him, it’ll likely be a situation similar to Donovan McNabb where they agree to a trade contingent on Cassel restructuring his contract.

Minnesota is expected move on from Joe Webb. Webb, 26, is due $575,000 for 2013.