NFL Draft: 10 biggest quarterback busts of all-time
By Gabe Encinas
JaMarcus Russell was a physical specimen, checking in at 6’6″ 250-pounds. He could throw the ball 70+ yards on one knee, no problem. His arm strength was second to none and he had proved to be a winner, also adding some mobility to his game.
His throwing motion just looked so smooth and it gave you the idea that he was going to be something great, warranting his No. 1 status in the 2007 draft.
The Oakland Raiders would only have Russell for three seasons, despite signing him to a six-year, $61 million contract. He only had one start in his rookie season, the final game of the season. In that start he completed 23-of-31, throwing for one touchdown, two picks and losing a fumble.
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In 2008, Russell was named the starter and started all but one game. He would go on to win five games that season with Raiders, throwing 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions, not producing anywhere near to where he was expected to. He started nine games in 2009, going 2-7. The Oakland Raiders had enough of his mediocrity.
With his salary increasing each year, the Raiders had to make a move and had no option but to release him, never to be signed again. He attempted a comeback in 2013, but there were no bidders for his services.