J. Russell to Make First Start
When JaMarcus Russell's contract dispute with the Oakland Raiders caused him to miss all of training camp and the preseason, it was clear that the quarterback's rookie season was basically lost and he'd be ready for significant playing time only at the very end of the season.
That's precisely the way things have played out for the top overall selection in the NFL draft in April.
Russell and has made three relief appearances this season, and now he's getting his first pro start. Coach Lane Kiffin plans to use Russell as the starter in Sunday's season finale against the San Diego Chargers.
Russell, playing in relief of Josh McCown, threw three interceptions in last Sunday's 49-11 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. He has an anemic passer rating of 24.6 in his three appearances this season.
By Mark Maske |
December 25, 2007; 8:49 PM ET
| Category:
Raiders
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Posted by: Ombudsman | December 26, 2007 7:59 AM
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Taking Jamarcus Russell #1 and paying him $29M is a big reason why Oakland will always be a bottom of the barrel team.
I can't blame Mr. Russell for taking the money; he just plays ball and hopes to get as much money as he can.
But as a coach/owner, surely you realize this guy has no chance of living up to the hype surrounding him. In fact, I'd be surprised if this guy is in the league in 4 years, much less starting. He is this year's Akili Smith.
Oakland would have been better off waiting another year, contacting Philly, offering 2 #1 picks to Philly and taking McNabb. This has the advantage of getting a guy who actually knows what he's doing and sends the #1's to a division/conference that won't come back to bite them.
All Russell will do is cost Oakland 29M bucks.