Russell expected to restructure, open up options for Raiders

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Tuesday, March 10, 2009  |  Comments( 11 )

Oakland Raiders
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The Oakland Raiders have been hard at work, releasing underperforming players and restructuring overvalued contracts awarded in the past. Quarterback JaMarcus Russell is expected to be the next to rework his original contract. The move would give the Raiders even more flexibility and adjust Russell’s contract to reflect his true value to the organization.

Oakland has made plenty of headlines -- mostly positive ones -- this offseason. Russell, the first overall selection of the 2007 draft, originally signed a six-year, $61 million contract. While he’s guaranteed roughly $32 million, his restructured deal will attempt to put him in line with other signal-callers around the NFL.

Russell joins a growing list of players who have agreed to restructure their contracts in Oakland. Wideout Javon Walker, running back Justin Fargas and offensive lineman Robert Gallery have all reworked their deals.

The jury is still out on Russell and the 2009 season will play a large role in determining how he’s progressed since arriving in the Bay Area. Being the top pick in the draft ensures added pressure, but the Raiders’ lack of relevance has taken the focus off Russell and instead put it on the floundering franchise as a whole.

Russell’s new contract will allow Oakland to redistribute funds in order to improve the overall talent of its roster. Recent rumors have linked soon-to-be ex-Jacksonville offensive lineman Khalif Barnes as a possible addition to the team. His arrival in Oakland would certainly be welcomed by Russell, given that Barnes can play both tackle positions along the offensive line.

In two seasons, Russell has compiled a QB rating of 73.9 in 19 games. After a forgettable rookie campaign, Russell emerged as a viable option under center as 2008 progressed, throwing for over 2,400 yards and 13 touchdowns compared to only eight interceptions. Furthermore, Russell connected on six scoring strikes and completed 63 percent of his passes during the Raiders’ final three outings.

In addition to what’s already been reported, the Raiders have other free agent targets on the radar. Look for acquiring a backup quarterback and a wide receiver to remain significant priorities. Oakland will likely address one or both of those areas in the draft, but it now has the option of filling the voids in free agency.
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About Brad Wilbricht

Brad Wilbricht covers numerous sporting events including the NFL, NFL Draft and college football. His analysis is simulcast through several media outlets across the country. Additionally, Brad is a regular guest on a variety of talk radio shows and can be frequently heard on the airwaves. To...
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