Former Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell doesn't plan to attempt a comeback in the Arena Football League or Canadian Football League, a source with knowledge of the situation said Tuesday.
Russell, the No. 1 overall draft pick in 2007, is trying to rehabilitate his football career after being released by the Raiders earlier this month. He's working out daily to get in better shape and is preparing as if he'll be in the NFL next season, according to the source.
There has been enough initial contact from NFL teams to assure the quarterback that he will be back in the league, though he would have to compete to make a club -- most likely in a backup capacity.
Some have indicated that playing full-time in Canada might hasten Russell's comeback, but that isn't something he's pursuing. Russell is still just 24 years old, has tremendous athletic ability and wants the opportunity to work in a system and with coaches who can help maximize his talent. Given the number of teams that have inquired about him, that opportunity could come at some point this spring or summer, though no signing is imminent.
