In the 2007 NFL Draft The Oakland Raiders thought they landed a cant miss prospect with a massive amount of potential. Jamarcus Russell was a heralded Quarterback out of LSU. Russell put up great numbers during his tenure for the Tigers. He caught national attention after his Sugar Bowl performance. Russell accumulated over 350 yards of passing and rushing and scored 3 TDs, leading to the Tigers 41–14 win over Notre Dame. He was also named the Sugar Bowl MVP. Before the Sugar Bowl performance Russell wasn't on many NFL mock drafts. After his MVP performance he surpassed the likes of Brady Quinn, Troy Smith, and Trent Edwards as the top Quarterback in the upcoming draft. After the season Russell wowed scouts in individual workouts and there were reports that he could throw the football 50 yards while being on his knees. The Raiders senile owner Al Davis is usually infatuated with superb athletes and troubled players. Davis's Raiders were blessed with the #1 pick in that year's draft and it was no question that they would draft Russell to be the savior to the franchise. Russell was selected #1 and that's when the expectations became larger than life. Jamarcus failed to reach a contract during training camp and it led to him holding out for more money. Russell held out through training camp and the first weeks of the 2007 NFL season, until September 12, 2007, when he signed a six-year contract worth up to $68 million, with $31.5 million guaranteed. With the large amount of salary given to the unproven prospect the Raiders wanted instant results. Owner Al Davis wanted to play Jamarcus Russell right away even though Head Coach Lane Kiffin thought otherwise. From the 2007 season until this past season Russell has been a huge disappointment. He has been erratic as a Quarterback and has been at the dinner table more than the end zone. Russell has been called out by multiple teammates and coaches for the lack of effort and lazy practice habits. To be a successful Quarterback in the NFL you need to put the time in to watch film and know everyone's assignment on the field. From my perspective it looked like Russell met with his jeweler and chef more than his Wide Receivers. Raider Nation is fed up with Russell and it's time for him to be ousted. With newly acquired Quarterback Jason Campbell Russell's days are numbered. The Raiders were robbed and Jamarcus Russell is laughing to the bank he may have lost the battle as a player but Russell's financial impact can hurt the Raiders development for years to come. Memo to NFL Scouts: When scouting a Quarterback analyze the players throwing mechanics, footwork, and accuracy not how far he can throw a football while sitting on his knees. Have you ever seen Drew Brees throw a touchdown on his knees? Al Davis will not admit he failed on this project. Al will continue to be Al and the Raiders will continue to be the Raiders.
