Now that I think about it your right. He brought him here to play and to win. But if our line can't keep the DL in check and Cassel goes down continuously, Thigpen will share snaps, maybe even take the job. It all depends on the OL in my opinion.
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One thing to remember is that Cassel learned at the feet of Belichick and Brady. Brady has been quoted often, without contradiction by Belichick, as saying that he approaches every Offseason and comes to every Training Camp with the mindset that he has to fight for his job, even with three Rings, two SB MVP's and a League MVP under his belt.
I think you can assume that Matt is already taking the same attitude. It doesn't matter whether Haley calls it a "competition" or not, Cassel will be working out and practicing as though he's on the verge of being cut. It's the Belichick Way. After Herm Edwards, it will take a little getting used to.