The Patriots have reportedly decided to ensure that quarterback Matt Cassel won't be an unrestricted free agent.
Sources indicate that New England will use a franchise tag on Cassel that will give the team two options. The Patriots can trade him if all goes well with Tom Brady's rehabilitation from a knee injury or keep him because all is not well with Brady.
This was first reported by NationalFootballPost.com
Sources: Pats To Franchise Cassel