Report: Chicago Bears Will Work Out JaMarcus Russell
By Josh Hill
The Chicago Bears are entering a new era in the franchise’s history and it might be one that involves a former No. 1 overall pick. According to Michael C. Wright from ESPN Chicago, the Bears will work out free agent quarterback and NFL Draft bust JaMarcus Russell this week.
"Former Oakland Raiders No. 1 overall pick JaMarcus Russell gets his first shot at returning to the NFL on Friday when he visits the Chicago Bears for a workout that will include three other quarterbacks, according to an NFL source with knowledge of the situation."
But while the Bears are looking to bring Russell in for a workout, Wright says that Bears fans shouldn’t just yet rush out to buy their Russell jersey from local memorabilia shops. After breaking the news, Wright reiterated on Twitter that Chicago is just taking a look and the work out is “due diligence”.
Bears initially weren't interested, but changed minds after seeing how far along Russell has come along. Just taking a look. Nothing more.
— Michael C. Wright (@mikecwright) June 4, 2013
Let me stress that a big deal probably shouldn't be made of Russell's workout. Bears doing due diligence here.
— Michael C. Wright (@mikecwright) June 4, 2013
Russell was rumored to have workouts with other teams in the NFL and he’s been working all offseason long with former quarterback Jeff Garcia as well as running back Marshall Faulk which shows he’s trying to make a comeback and isn’t doing this just for a paycheck. According to Wright, the Bears are bringing in Russell because they’re impressed with his progress but that sentiment might extend to other teams as well, especially if Russell puts on a good show during his Friday workout in Chicago.