The Redskins worked out 2007 No. 1 overall pick, quarterback JaMarcus Russell, Tuesday along with at least eight other players. Russell had his issues in Oakland, which released him this spring. But Russell has been working out and getting mentored by former NBA great John Lucas. Also, a grand jury recently decided not to indict Russell in an Alabama drug case.
Redskins offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan said the team also worked out a few other quarterbacks. It’s typical for the Redskins, and every other NFL team, to work out players on a Tuesday and especially during the bye week. It does not mean they will sign any of these players. More often than not they’re considered fact-finding missions.
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Russell’s weight was an issue with Oakland, but he appeared to be in better shape than at the end of his tenure with the Raiders.
“I haven’t studied JaMarcus since he came out of college,” Shanahan said. “I think me and everyone else from the NFL thought he was a hell of a talent coming out. I know it didn’t work out for him.
“I don’t think you consider anyone just based off talent. Everyone in the NFL is pretty talented. It’s the other stuff that separates you. … If he looks like he’s in good shape and he’s working, then that’s all you can evaluate. Everything else is just hearsay. Sometimes when guys do get a second opportunity the can change their stripes.”
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