Matt Cassel had appendectomy

Kansas City quarterback Matt Cassel underwent laparoscopic surgery on his appendix Wednesday morning.

The Chiefs at first refused to say why he was not at practice, then said he had a successful appendectomy and would return to work this week.

While there won't be an offiical injury designation until Friday, Cassel is being viewed as questionable for Sunday's AFC West showdown at San Diego, a league source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. The team believes there's a 50 percent chance of him playing against the Chargers, the source said.

Coach Todd Haley said earlier Wednesday it's only a coincidence that third-string quarterback Tyler Palko was promoted off the practice squad Wednesday. The backup is Brodie Croyle, who has not played this season.

Croyle under center would be a blow to fantasy stud Dwayne Bowe, but expect Croyle to still get him the ball. In 9 games with Croyle starting Bowe has 43 receptions, 511 yards & 4TDs.

If Cassel can't go, expect the leagues leading rushing team to lean even more on the running game in a must win game against the Chargers.