Jamarcus Russell: Time To Break Out Of Your Shell!

There is no doubt that Jamarcus Russell is not the Tom Brady "get in your face" type of quarterback. He's not going to get loud when a receiver drops a pass, or even when he makes a big play of his own.

The most he would do is share in celebration when his teammates score or if his receiver drops a pass he might say, "hey, don't worry about it. You owe us one next time, so make sure you get it right," in a low tone.

What most media figures such as ESPN may think is lack of motivation or lack of love for the game. I would call it a quiet confidence. Actually, a lot like Eli Manning when he first came into the league. Regardless of what you call it, Russell needs to break out in 2009.

The theme of this offseason has, no doubt, been about quarterback Jamarcus Russell.

The Oakland Raiders wisely retained a coach that Russell has shown respect for and in the future he can trust. In return, Tom Cable has made it known that he has faith in Russell, yet has also has shown interest in pushing him to be better mentally and being a leader amongst men.

Though most fans look at the last six weeks of the season when they look at Russell's progression, I believe it was in week seven against the New York Jets that Jamarcus showed his true potential. Not only did he make big plays, but in clutch situations—particularly in overtime.

However it was the last six weeks that Russell's leadership skills manifested themselves. In week 15 against the New England Patriots, the Raiders for lack of a better phrase, were getting blown out. In the second half Jamarcus took command of the huddle and led the team to convincing scoring drives.

Expecting a bad performance from Jamarcus in week 16, he instead turned in an impressive passer rating and two touchdowns.

The next week against Tampa Bay, after throwing an interception and making the touchdown saving tackle, he led the Raiders to a touchdown of his own cutting the lead to three, then using Michael Bush to close out the game. The Raiders would win 31-24.

Now, with minicamp around the corner, Russell has more tools and less drama to deal with. Tom Cable has given Russell a well known quarterback's coach who has worked with Hall of Famer Joe Montana and NFL MVP and former Raider Rich Gannon.

Russell now has a veteran back up who knows he must tutor the young signal caller, yet has the moxie to compete with him in order to push Russell to be better.

Cable Has even improved the receiving corps that could not help Jamarcus at all in '08. The key now is to find one of his young receivers to gel within order to take some of the pressure off of his insurance policy Zach Miller.

Though Johnnie Lee Higgins has improved, it seems the Raiders want to use him in third down situations and take advantage of his yards-after-catch skils. The first round pick in Darrius Heyward-Bey is intriguing, yet being a number one receiver is asking a lot for a young man in year one, especially without a reliable veteran. Even Tory Holt had Isaac Bruce. My favorite to be the number one receiver is Chaz Schillens. He has both the physical tools and work ethic to be a playmaker in the NFL.

If Russell can find at least one receiver he can find chemistry with, expect his progression to sky-rocket. He has the coaches and now the veterans behind him to help be the best he can be.

No time for excuses...it's time to break out your shell!