MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The Minnesota Vikings have signed free agent quarterback Matt Cassel.

The Vikings announced the signing Friday, one day after agreeing to terms with the former Patriot and Chief to be the backup to starter Christian Ponder. Cassel was waived by Kansas City on Thursday with two years left on his contract.

Cassel led the Patriots to an 11-5 record in place of the injured Tom Brady in 2008. He was traded to Kansas City in 2009, made the Pro Bowl in 2010 and struggled the past two seasons. He threw six touchdown passes and 12 interceptions in nine games last year.