Here are some of the now ex-Oakland Raiders quarterback’s (cut Thursday), um, finer moments. And, as you read this, keep in mind he received $39 million the past three years for this body of work:
5. The courtside reaction » Russell was ripped by the TNT basketball guys as he sat courtside at a Mavs-Suns game in February. Maybe it was because he wore a diamond-encrusted No. 2 Raiders jersey medallion, huge diamond rings, a large diamond bracelet and a gold necklace that read “Chosen.” For what, we have no idea. Oh, and he had two gold chains.
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4. The weight » We’re not saying he was too big, but it’s not good when the quarterback of the team can outeat the offensive linemen; 300 is a great number in bowling, but not when it comes to a QB’s weight.
3. Consummate teammate » After the 2009 season, maybe Russell knew his time had passed in Oakland. The supposed leader of the offense skipped the final team meeting and was later spotted that day in Las Vegas.
2. Under the bus you go » This past season, Raiders coach Tom Cable was asked if they’d be in playoff contention had they received even average quarterback play. Russell had gone 2-7 as a starter. Cable said, “Without even asking that question you know we would have.”
1. The stats » Eighteen touchdowns; 23 interceptions; seven wins in 25 starts. Nice pick, Al Davis (just so you know, Lane Kiffin wanted to take Calvin Johnson. Kiffin was later fired.)
