he had a very average 08 but most qbs on the raiders do. he also got better at the end of the year.and he did help beat the bucaneers, knocking them out of the playoffs.
Russell showed a lot of potential and improved in many areas.
He only had 8 interceptions, which is excellent for a starter in the NFL. He made many nice throws, and showed mobility and awareness on the field. He helped lead big upsets over Denver, Jets, Bucs, and Texans.
But he has a lot to work on. He only completed 53% of his passes, only threw 13 TD's, and only 2,400 yards. His QB rating was a mediocre 77.3.
He needs more talent around him though, McFadden and Walker were poor, he did not really have a go-to guy, that would really help him.
I don't think he will be cause there is going to be some other Veteran Quarterbacks that the Raiders can pick up but for now I think he will be the number 1 Quarterback but to me I think he is a Bust.
in the future (who knows how long, with Al Davis) Jamarcus Russell will finally have a threat like Steve Smith or Randy Moss that he can throw to 60-70 yards away and have an amazing year. remember how he was at the Combine? just give it some time. patience.
Hate to break it to you, but JaMarcus Russell is NOT the QB of the future for the silver and black. He had a few decent games, but statistically he was one of the worst QBs in the league. Any .500 team has an above average QB who has the ability to lead his team and have a chance to come from behind to win...
JaMarcus is not a leader and doesn't have the talent to take the Raiders or any other team to the next level. My guess says he's benched mid way through 2009 and cut by the end of the year.
At this point, it is best to keep him in the offense. The thing that is true when playing in the NFL, you must have consistency. If something isn't broken, don't fix it. Jamarcus is a good QB. He was drafted in Oakland for a reason. Its not as if he was a draft pick bust like Joey Harrington was. I think the problem with the Raiders is their defense. They have the offensive pieces in place with the exception with WR's. Now they need to get the right defensive mind set. Also Davis needs to be removed as owner, and get new management. Russel won't be going anywhere. The last thing you need as an organization is to continue drafting more QB's instead of using what you have.