A slimmed down JaMarcus Russell is gaining big-time interest on the NFL free-agent circuit.
Russell, who notoriously flamed out with the Oakland Raiders in three seasons after being the top draft-pick in 2007, has reportedly dropped 50 pounds and is now down to 265 as he plots to make his comeback.
According to NFL.com's Ian Rapoport, teams have taken heed of Russell’s newfound serious approach to things and there now seems to be "significant" interest from more than one team for his services.
Rapoport also reports that Russell has hired high-powered agent Eugene Parker to represent him and has indicated he would be willing to sit on the bench and further learn behind a respected, veteran quarterback.
Russell has been working out at TEST Academy in California for the last several weeks and his weight of 265 is the same size he was at when he appeared at the 2007 NFL Scouting Combines and soared to the top of most team’s draft boards.
If Russell doesn't catch on with an NFL team in the next 30 to 45 days, he has also expressed a willingness to sign with a Canadian Football League squad and work his way back, according to Rapoport.
The Raiders signed Russell to a deal worth upward of $61 million, $32 million of which was guaranteed. The now 28-year-old went a dismal 7-18 as a starter.
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