Raider News & Notes: Russell the FB, Brown, Ellis etc.
Gary Russell in pre-season action against the Saints
Gary Russell, who led the Oakland Raiders in rushing during the pre-season (28 carries for 155 yards and 3 scores) will see action on Sunday versus the Philadelphia Eagles at fullback. Oren O’Neal was ineffective, fell into the doghouse, was waived when Langston Walker signed this week and Luke Lawton is doubtful to play with an ankle injury.
At first glance, Russell is not your typical looking fullback. At 5’11” and 215 pounds, the 23-year old will have to use his quickness to hit holes and pave lanes for Raider running backs. That may be a welcomed sight after seeing the slow trotting O’Neal have his difficulties all season. Oakland has to worry about his use on passing downs, and if they are smart, they will avoid using him as a key protector when JaMarcus Russell drops back to pass versus a blitz happy Eagles defense.
Rookie tight end Brandon Myers, who lined up at fullback in big packages during the summer, could see action back there as well.
Defensive end Greg Ellis missed practice again late in the week, which could cut into his time on the field on Sunday. The first year Raider had his knee drained on Monday and was very outspoken this week with the media stating, “The mood we’re going to be in or should be in, right now we’re kind of the laughingstock of the NFL,” on Thursday. “This isn’t anything new. Teams have been that way before. New England wasn’t always winning Super Bowls and Dallas wasn’t always the team they are. So, it goes in cycles. When you’re in that down cycle, you got to fight and claw to get back out of it and that’s what we’re doing here right now in Oakland.”
Linebacker Ricky Brown
Ricky Brown will wear a cast on his right ankle for a few weeks before doctors decide whether or not they opt for surgery. If surgery is needed, Brown will be lost for the season.
Wide receiver Chaz Schilens is listed as questionable and will be a game time decision. Tom Cable stated that Javon Walker would be active. It will be the first time he sees game action since week-two.
Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist
