A regular look at when we can expect to see the 2007 rookie quarterback class on the field. He'll start right away if: The Raiders think the offensive line can protect him. Russell was the first pick in the draft in large part because of his size, but he's not big enough to withstand the kind of pounding he'll take if the Raiders' line is as bad as it was last year.
He'll hold the clipboard if: Josh McCown looks competent in training camp. The Raiders traded for McCown during the draft, and they hope McCown plays well enough that they can take their time letting Russell adjust to the pro game.
Most likely scenario: Coach Lane Kiffin will give McCown the nod in September, and the Raiders might even have a winning record early in the season, given that two of their first three games are home dates with Detroit and Cleveland. But at some time in September, the Raiders' offense will look inept, and the cries for the first pick in the draft will be too loud for Kiffin to ignore. He'll hand the job to Russell during the Raiders' Week 5 bye.
Projected first start: October 14, 2007




