Oakland Raiders future: JaMarcus Russell

January 7, 12:05 AMOakland Raiders ExaminerPatrick Patterson

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Walter was the future, but Russell is the future, 
Photo by Patrick A. Patterson/TFDSsports.com

When JaMarcus Russell was drafted first overall and given a $60 million contract, he and Al Davis both said "I do" to a union where the success or failure of the Oakland Raiders resides in Russell's ability to lead the team.

Russell's rookie season was hindered by his protracted holdout to open the season. He missed his chance to see live action in the preseason, as he didn't sign until the regular season began. He had to make up for all the time he lost in training camp, and didn't get into a game until late in the season. He saw action in four games with one start. His performance was hit or miss in those games.

Coming into 2008, he was the anointed starter. He started 15 games, missing one due to injury. He started off slowly, but had a much better second half of the season. He appeared to be finally coming into his own in the closing games.

Russell is the key piece that the Raiders need to build their offense around. The tandem of Michael Bush and Darren McFadden look to give the Raiders a threat running the ball that will help take the pressure off of Russell. He also appeared to be building chemistry with receivers Chaz Schilens and Johnnie Lee Higgins, which is something else the Raiders can build upon next year.

Russell's most reliable target has been tight end Zach Miller. Miller was selected in the second round of the same draft as Russell. The Russell to Miller connection showed up in the final game of the 2007 season as they connected on six passes in a season ending loss to the San Diego Chargers. Considering that Miller has nearly double the receptions of the second place receiver, it is safe to say that the Russell-Miller connection is going to be a mainstay in Oakland for years to come.

The key to Russell's success is to make sure that he gets the protection he requires. The tackle play was abysmal for much of the season, although that seemed to improve greatly when Mario Henderson took over for Kwame Harris at left tackle. The Raiders need to continue to reinforce their line to ensure that Russell doesn't get hit. He seemed to be building confidence towards the end of the season, and increased protection play a role in that confidence. As long as the Raiders can continue to improve their protection, Russell will continue to improve.

The Raiders also need to make sure that he has a consistent receiving threat on the outside. Higgins and Schilens are on their way up, but having one receiver that Russell could always count on in addition to Miller would be what he needs to have the best chance to fulfill his immense potential.