It started Tuesday with a tweet from wide receiver Chad Ochocinco, who said he'll see JaMarcus Russell in the Cincinnati Bengals' June minicamp. Later, a league source told NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora that the Bengals are among the teams that have contacted the quarterback's representatives.
Nothing is imminent, La Canfora reported, but the Bengals, who have J.T. O'Sullivan as their backup to quarterback Carson Palmer, are a potential suitor.
Russell, whom the Oakland Raiders released last week, plans to take his time in picking his next team and is focused on getting himself into shape and weighing his options, the source said. Those close to Russell hope his release serves as a wake-up call for the former No. 1 overall pick, who in 31 career games has thrown 18 touchdowns and 23 interceptions for a 65.2 rating.