NFL people speculating that Buffalo Bills will cut Matt Cassel

The Buffalo Bills have a decision to make regarding their backup quarterback situation and the status of the two players vying for that role, veteran Matt Cassel and third-year pro EJ Manuel. Per Vic Carucci of The Buffalo News, people around the NFL are expecting the Bills to choose Manuel over Cassel.

Expectation of multiple #NFL personnel people is the #Bills will cut Matt Cassel & keep EJ Manuel, who has strong support from Doug Whaley.

— Vic Carucci (@viccarucci) September 2, 2015

With a cap No. of nearly $5 mil, Matt Cassel is an expensive backup. #Bills need all the space they can to extend Marcell Dareus' deal.

— Vic Carucci (@viccarucci) September 2, 2015

Note that these sources are not necessarily directly linked to the Bills, which means that Cassel could very much still be in the team's plans at One Bills Drive. But Carucci's report states what seems obvious to many fans and observers, as well: Manuel outplayed Cassel this summer, and is a more sensible option as the backup in nearly every way save for simple playing experience.

Manuel and Cassel both are not expected to play during Thursday night's preseason finale in Detroit, with Matt Simms drawing the start and, barring injury, playing the entire game. Simms, per Carucci's report, is expected to stay with the Bills on the practice squad this season, particularly if either Manuel or Cassel are moved.