JaMarcus Russell works out for 'Skins on heels of McNabb benching

JaMarcus Russell, the No. 1 draft pick in 2007, was released by the Raiders in May.

AP

ASHBURN, Va. (AP) -- Former Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell worked out with the Washington Redskins on Tuesday, just three days after Donovan McNabb was benched in the closing minutes of a loss to Detroit.

Offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan said Russell was one of many players, including a few other quarterbacks, who were getting a look from the team.

"We'll evaluate him and everyone else out there," Shanahan said.

The Redskins routinely invite out-of-work players for workouts on Tuesdays, but the timing of Russell's visit only added to the team's quarterback drama of the last few days. McNabb's benching raised questions about the six-time Pro Bowl player's future with the team, and coach Mike Shanahan added to the confusion by offering varying explanations for the decision.

Russell, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 draft, was released in May after three disappointing seasons with the Raiders. He regressed on the field, was fined for being overweight and was criticized by the coaching staff for his work ethic.

Kyle Shanahan praised Russell's talents, but said the other factors do come into consideration when evaluating a player.

"I don't think you consider anyone just based off of talent," Kyle Shanahan said. "Everyone in the NFL's pretty talented. (It's) other stuff that really separates you. He is very talented, so I think he can overcome some of the stuff that he struggled with. I don't really know that personally, but if he looks like he's in good shape out here and he's working, and that's all you can evaluate. Sometimes when guys do get a second opportunity, they can change their stripes."

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