Quarterback JaMarcus Russell has signed the NFL’s biggest-ever rookie contract after ending his holdout at Oakland. The top pick in this year’s NFL draft had refused to agree terms with the Raiders until he got the right deal.
Signing the most lucrative rookie contract in NFL history the six-year deal could pay him up to $68 million. The previous record deal for a rookie was when the Detroit Lions’ gave No. 2 pick Calvin Johnson a $27.2 million.
Russell already missed training camp, the Raiders’ four preseason games and their regular-season opener during contract negotiations. The Raiders, who went a league-worst 2-14 last season, lost last week’s opening game to the Detroit Lions 36-21.
Coach Lane Kiffin reintroduced Russell to the team and said:
He’s at a definite disadvantage, especially with that position, as far as quarterback. You’re talking about hundreds and hundreds of reps in preseason and being in games. We can’t simulate what he missed. That’s put him in a tough situation. Russell will play as soon as he shows he is ready.
The colossal Russell has a 25-4 record as a starter at Louisiana State University and threw 52 touchdown passes over three seasons. For now, the Raiders have a sigh of relief to see their quarterback of the future under siege.
Via: Bloomberg
