Don’t call it a comeback, but the former number one pick from the 2007 draft class has been working out this off-season in an attempt to land a spot on an NFL roster. Jacksonville, Cleveland, and New York are just a few of the teams with a less than ideal situation at quarterback.
According to one NFL scout, the former LSU product has a “good chance of getting a second chance. Mike Freeman of CBS Sport is also reporting that the draft bust is attracting the interest of some NFL teams.
Russell’s training should show NFL teams that he is serious about making a return. He has a number of supporters in his corner and has been training with Jeff Garcia. His strength coach, Jeff Hurd, has worked with a number of NFL players and would appear to have Russell headed in the right direction.
Often regarded as a heartless, lazy player, Russell has slimmed down from 315 pounds to an astounding 288 pounds as a result of his hard work. His ideal weight goal would be to slim down to around 270 pounds. His mobility has greatly improved since training, but the major concern is if his new frame can withstand the rigorous in-game action.
Weight isn’t the only concern out of Russell’s camp. In addition to needing to bulk up, there is the matter of getting game-ready. Russell is training to get in game day shape, and practicing making every throw a QB in the NFL would make. Executing the intricacies of an NFL offense is tough, and Russell will need to hit the film room to improve the mental aspect of the game. The league has changed since 2010, and Russell may struggle dissecting the confusing defensive schemes in today’s game.
After his failure in Oakland, and gaining the reputation as the biggest draft bust in the NFL, expect Russell to have a chip on his shoulder going forward. In his brief three-year career with Oakland, Russell completed 52.1 percent of his passes and threw for just 4,083 yards with 18 touchdowns and 23 interceptions, posting a 65.2 passer rating. His career record as a starter is 7-18.
With teams lacking decent options under center, he is set to draw at least a modicum of preliminary interest. The biggest step in Russell’s long journey to the NFL will be the results of his pro day scheduled for April 10.
There are only so many quarterbacks that can play in the NFL, but Russell has potential to land on a team in need of a backup QB. The list of available serviceable backups is limited to Tim Tebow and Vince Young, so it is not an impossible feat for Russell. The question remains on whether or not an NFL team will pull the trigger on the lethargic QB prospect.
Still, the ex-Raider should warrant an invite to training camp should he appear to be in shape. He is just 27-years-old and still has plenty of power left in his throwing arm; not to mention he could sign for the league minimum. With a weaker draft class at the position, I think Russell will land on a roster this season, even if it is as a third-stringer.
After all, Ryan Leaf was given a second chance.
