Matt Leinart is still encouraged he will someday get to put down the clipboard and lead an NFL offense. Only this year, he's comfortable backing up former USC teammate Carson Palmer, the former top-10 pick told KSPN-AM in Los Angeles on Friday. "I still have the mindset and desire to play," Leinart said about taking the position behind Palmer with the Oakland Raiders instead of signing where he could compete for a starting job. "I am obviously still competitive and I hate to be on the sideline sitting and watching ... I know what I can do," he added. Leinart backed up Palmer at USC for two seasons, one a redshirt year. He signed a one-year deal with the Raiders on Monday. "We have remained close over the years," Leinart said. "He is a guy I have always looked up to, and it's awesome 10 years later to be reunited." Source: NFL.com
