Raiders Release Russell

According to the NFL, The Oakland Raiders have released QB Jamarcus Russell.  In his years in Oakland, Jamarcus has been an underachiever.  His work ethic and decision making were questioned.  Thus begins the Jason Campbell era by the bay.

Coming out of LSU, Russell had some question marks.  Could he read a defense?  Could he make the throws?  Did he even care?

After a lackluster 3 years, Al Davis is cutting ties.  That may be the bigger story here.  Al fired Lane Kiffen for cause.  There is still a grievance against the club by Kiffen.  Mr. Davis, in his overhead projector laden firing press conference, said "Jamarcus Russell is a star, get over it."  Cutting Russell tell me that Al is serious about winning.  He has put his ego aside and has gone to work.  Coupled with a great draft, the Raiders look to make some noise this season.

As for Jamarcus, I bet he'll catch on somewhere for league minimum.  He is still young.  If someone can get through to him, he could still be a serviceable QB.  Potential wise, his ceiling is unlimited.  It's the mental aspect that has shown to be lacking.  By all accounts, he isn't dumb or a bad person.  He did reasonably well on the Wonderlic.  Perhaps some questionable advice coupled with family issues and a laid back personality were his Waterloo. 

I hope he gets his mind right, and figures it out.