NFL Notes: Cassel out for Chiefs-Chargers game

Quarterback Matt Cassel didn’t travel to San Diego on Saturday and is out for the Kansas City Chiefs’ game against the Chargers today.

Cassel, having the finest year of his career for the AFC West-leading Chiefs (8-4), underwent an emergency appendectomy Wednesday morning. The Chiefs refused to say all week whether he would be available for the game against the Chargers, who are in second place behind Kansas City in the AFC West.

Samuel sidelined

Philadelphia Eagles Pro Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel won’t play against the Dallas Cowboys because of a knee injury.

The team announced that Samuel wasn’t making the trip to Dallas for today’s game. Right tackle Winston Justice also isn’t going because of a knee injury.

Samuel injured his knee on Nov. 15. He briefly returned to practice Wednesday after missing two games, but wasn’t able to participate all week.

Samuel missed one game earlier this season with a concussion. He leads the NFL with seven interceptions despite playing in nine games.

Broncos’ Cox makes trip

Denver Broncos rookie cornerback Perrish Cox traveled to Phoenix with his teammates but his playing status today remains undecided following his arrest for investigation of sexual assault.

The Broncos could punish the standout defensive back from Oklahoma State for missing practice and meetings Friday while he was detained in the Douglas County Jail following his arrest Thursday night. They could bench him for part of the game against the Cardinals and also fine him.

A team spokesman said no decision had been made Saturday night about whether Cox would play today. He’s listed as questionable.