Should QB Matt Cassel Have Played So Soon After His Father's Death?

IWhen I left on a business trip in 2004 I pretty much knew my father would be dead from Alzheimers and heart failure before I returned. My mother said to me, you've been here every step of the way and you know how your father felt about work and your career, so if anything my going on with my plans honored his memory. Three days later, my husband called to tell me my father was dead and I wanted nothing more than to come home, if I hadnt had good friends and colleagues at the conference I would have because needed the support system. Otherwise the folks at home, my momther, sister and children were fine. I found out my father was dead and had 15 minutes to put my game face on and host a professional reception for 300 or so people. There may have been some that said I didnt do the right thing but for me and my family it was the right thing, so Matt Cassels made the decision that was best for him. As my mother said, you're being here or not being here wasnt going to make him any less dead.

What disturbs me is that there was no mention of what the father died of. Had he a long, debilitating ailment then Matt Cassle may have been well-prepared for his eminent demise. Even though they're only playing against the Oakland Raiders, the Patriots are in a tight division race with Miami and the Jets and playoff implications are a plenty, aside from the fact that they'd have to rely on a third-stringer whoever that happens to be.

My heart goes out to Matt Cassel in this time of grief. May he find peace and comfort with his remaining family and friends.

Steve, had Matt been a factory worker it is quite likely that he would have had only three days bereavement leave, and that unpaid, before he had to return to work. In that case he would not have had an option to extend his time away from work without penalty.

The fact that Matt Cassel had the choice is a blessing for him. Many, many others do not have that choice. Perhaps we need to remember that as we analyze the appropriateness of the choice that Matt made.