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Is new Viking Matt Cassel one of the NFL's top back-up quarterbacks?

A discussion on the NFL Network puts Christian Ponder's veteran understudy near the top of the list.

June 7, 2013 at 7:12PM

Vikings quarterbacks Matt Cassel, left, and Christian Ponder took part in a offseason conditioning program. (Star Tribune file/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Yep, it's early June and we're already so deep down the NFL storyline list that we're engaging in discussions about standout back-up quarterbacks. Which means the conversations about upcoming quarterback controversies can't be far behind.

This morning on the NFL Network's "NFL AM" program, analyst and former NFL offensive lineman Jamie Dukes assembled his top five list for best back-up QBs.

New Viking Matt Cassel? He checked in at No. 3 on Dukes' list. Said Dukes: "Here's my criteria for back-ups: They're guys who can win you games. But they can't consistently win you games."

Here's the list in full:

5. Matt Hasselbeck -- in Indianapolis behind Andrew Luck

4. Kyle Orton -- in Dallas behind Tony Romo

3. Cassel -- with the Vikings behind Christian Ponder

2. Ryan Fitzpatrick -- in Tennessee behind Jake Locker

1. Mark Sanchez -- in New York behind ... well, there's no designated starter so ... Geno Smith?

Here's what Dukes had to say about Cassel: "Ironically, he was also the back-up of one Tom Brady. And he got that little chance to go to Kansas City and take all their money. And that was good for him and his family. But the reality is this is where he belongs -- as a back-up. But I will tell you this though. I would not be surprised ... You mention Christian Ponder. With what they have in Minnesota, if Christian Ponder doesn't show that he's making strides, I would not be surprised to see this back-up once again get a [starting] job. Only to have them draft somebody else. Because again, I don't think he's a long-term solution. But Matt Cassel is a quality back-up in this league."