Former #1 Overall Pick, Russell, Benched by Raiders in Favor of Gradkowski

Oakland Raiders head coach Tom Cable announced on Wednesday after the team's practice session that Raiders starting quarterback and former #1 overall selection in the 2007 NFL Draft, JaMarcus Russell, has been permanently benched for consistently poor performances throughout the 2009 season. Russell will be replaced in Oakland's lineup by journeyman backup quarterback Bruce Gradkowski. Russell had been benched during the second half of two of the last three Raiders' games due to his inadequate accuracy and baffling decision making.

Cable reportedly received Raiders owner Al Davis' blessing to make the switch at the quarterback position, according to The Associated Press. Davis was the primary advocate behind the decision to draft Russell with the first overall selection of the 2007 NFL Draft despite the fact that highly rated skill position prospects such as wide receiver Calvin Johnson and running back Adrian Peterson, both of whom have developed into elite performers at their respective positions, were also available.

Russell's inadequate accuracy is exemplified by his 46.8 percent completion percentage as well as the fact that he threw for just two touchdowns in comparison to nine interceptions through the season's first nine games. Gradkowski will make his first start of the 2009 season on Sunday at home against the AFC North leading Cincinnati Bengals, who are coming off of a road victory against the defending Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers.