JaMarcus Russell Weighs in at a Svelte 269, Ready to Assume Starting QB Duties

This offseason, there were concerns among some in the media that JaMarcus Russell had to go XXXL on his Cosby sweaters; no one had seen him for long stretches and naturally, it followed that Russell must've swollen to the size of a small mansion.

As it turned out, Russell hadn't gained any weight, was working out on his own, and preparing for the Raiders staring quarterback gig. And now, two days into training camp, we have confirmation.

When he showed up at Thursday's camp christening, you'll be happy to know he more resembled a full-functioning franchise savior than a 300-pound whale. Then again, "I kind of felt like I was 1,000 pounds out there," said Russell, attributing the extra weight to his long-lost shoulder pads.

Actually, Russell is 269 pounds. He baited a reporter into thinking he indeed hit the rumored 300-pound mark this offseason, then claimed he topped off at 276.

I suspect there's no better diet suppressor than the specter of getting knocked silly 10-15 times a game thanks to a pass-blocking optional offensive line. In any event, Russell looks the part of competent starting NFL quarterback, which is a welcome change in Oakland.

Helping in Russell's development is offensive coordinator Greg Knapp, entering his second season with the club. And not only is he making Russell better, he's helping the support staff be all they can be. Or something.

Early drills found offensive coordinator Greg Knapp lecturing one of the members of the support staff who was throwing passes from close range to tight ends during a drill.

"Give it a little more. Give it a little more. There's a kid named JaMarcus who throws the ball. He's faster than that."

So it's all coming together, just like Al Davis drew it up. Denver Broncos, Mike Shanahan, you've been put on notice.