Matt Cassel's father passed away earlier this week

[CelticsWhat35]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3759665

Looks like it was something sudden.  Not many details.  Questionable whether Matt will be able to play this week.  On one hand, some people might think it would be a good distraction for him.  Me personally, I don't know how I could possibly keep my head in the game so few days after learning of such a tragedy.  Thoughts and prayers of course go out to him and his family.

[dark_lord]

that is aweful and my thoughts/prayers go out to him and his loved ones.  losing a parent is a traumatic experience.

[Chris]

This really is terrible news.  I am sure it is not much, but perhaps it is at least a little consolation that at least he was able to see his son have success in the NFL before passing away.

[Redz]

Apparently he returned to the team today, which seems to be a sign that he plans on playing Sunday.  Whatever works for him best.  Hopefully this is a good distraction for him.

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/reiss_pieces/2008/12/cassel_back_wit.html