Oakland Raiders: Russell's job...dream, or nightmare?

JaMarcus Russell. For Oakland fans, this here, is another name, in a long line of Quarterbacks who's been tabbed to be the next future leader, of the franchise.

And if you haven't realized....it's not an easy job, just look at the past names.

Andrew Walter. Marques Tuiasosopo. Billy Joe Hobert. And Todd Marinovich.

If you want to add some more question marks, the Raiders also have added, as stopgap measures, Aaron Brooks, Kerry Collins, Duante Culpepper, Josh McCown, Wade Wilson, Tee Martin, and others.

Why is it so hard to fill a vital spot, on this team?

Part of it, could be noted in the history. For our draftwork, we've had one major QB that signed with us, and amount to anything. That was Ken Stabler.

We had two QBs slip out, due to the AFL-NFL fight, Craig Morton and Roman Gabriel.

You can also consider, that several QBs, we've picked up, were from other clubs. Jim Plunkett was given up by the NFL, but the Raiders took a shot at him, and wound up getting two rings. Daryle Lamonica, we traded for with Buffalo. And most of us remember guys like Jeff Hostetler and Jeff George.

But as it goes, drafting QBs, hasn't been a strong suit.

Two of the worst projects we've had, was Marc Wilson, who couldn't stay on his feet, and Todd Marinovich, who couldn't decide between a football and a surfboard.

Russell, for his talent, has the earmarks to break the mold. Strong, and willing to be creative, he brings several factors that Andrew Walter and Tui couldn't deliver on.

Some of these question marks were taken care of, friday evening in practice. Russell looked sharp, throwing to different parts of the field, but as well, scrambling well, and getting out of trouble when needed.

It's early in the season....but i'm seeing a young star developing.

And hopefully, Davis leaves the team alone long enough to come full circle.