If there is such a thing as the JaMarcus Russell sweepstakes, it has begun.
Russell has actually attracted several teams, according to Ian Rapaport. In fact, the quarterback worked out for the Chicago Bears this ;ast week. Seeing as they already have Jay Cutler on the roster, Russell would not be competing for the starting gig. However, he could easily outplay Josh McCown for the backup job if he’s been as committed to a return as he says he’s been.
Along with Chicago, other teams that have surefire starters and no solid backup should look at Russell. He’s still just 27 years old and with the way it seems he’s been working out, it’s safe to say he’ll be in shape.
I feel like the Dallas Cowboys, San Diego Chargers, and St. Louis Rams all could be potential fits for the ex-LSU star, as each team’s quarterback situation has a theme of uncertainty.
Dallas has Tony Romo and, with his ridiculous contract, the Cowboys will want to get the most they can out of him before he hits the wall. After all, Romo isn’t a bad quarterback, but his inconsistency and inability in do-or-die situations has haunted him. Russell can step in and compete with Kyle Orton for the backup job.
San Diego is still with long-time underachiever Philip Rivers. Rivers has never taken the Bolts to a Super Bowl and his window of opportunity is almost sealed shut. The backup in San Diego is Charlie Whitehurst, so the Chargers could use a little competition there.
Lastly, the Rams and former No. 1 overall pick Sam Bradford aren’t going in the right direction. Bradford really hasn’t been able to take St. Louis to the next level. Granted, he has been hurt here and there, but Bradford needs to prove his worth in 2013. Even if he shines, the backup is Kellen Clemens, and with Bradford’s injury history, it may be wise for St. Louis to fix that reliability issue and perhaps put Russell in that spot.
Overall, it has been impressive to see JaMarcus Russell’s determination and will to get to where he is now, being worked out by the Chicago Bears. Ultimately, I believe he’ll be on an NFL roster this season and it will be exciting to find out which team.
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